It is important that you consider all of the options before making a decision about your unplanned pregnancy. Know that you aren’t alone, and we are here to support you.

Abortion is the termination of a pregnancy. There are two different types of abortion: medical abortion and surgical abortion.

Medical Abortion

Medical abortion ends a viable pregnancy with two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks progesterone to terminate the pregnancy. After, the second drug, misoprostol, is taken. This triggers uterine contractions to expel the embryo or fetus and pregnancy tissue from the body. Medical abortion drugs are FDA-approved for use within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy.

There are some potential risks associated with medical abortion to consider, though every woman’s experience is different. These include heavy and prolonged bleeding, fever, infection, digestive system discomfort, an ongoing pregnancy, and even an incomplete abortion—which may require a surgical abortion.

Surgical Abortion

A surgical abortion is typically performed when the woman is further along in her pregnancy. Two types of surgical abortion include Dilation & Evacuation (D & E) and Dilation & Curettage (D & C). Both procedures dilate your cervix and use vacuum aspiration, or suction, to remove the embryo and pregnancy tissue from your uterus. Unlike medical abortions, which can be carried out at home, surgical abortions are performed in a clinic or hospital.

Like medical abortions, surgical abortions carry some risks. These risks include damage to the cervix, infection, uterine perforation, infection, and scar tissue on the uterine wall.

It is important that you take the time to consider the option that is right for you. You will need to consider both the benefits and risks associated with abortion. For some women, this can be a difficult decision. If you find yourself with an unplanned pregnancy, you deserve to know all of your options. Allow yourself the opportunity to think about what is best for you!