An abortion is a major medical decision, and we’re glad you are asking questions beforehand. Knowing what to expect is essential so you are ready if complications arise. 

Every abortion involves a certain amount of bleeding and cramping, but you need to know how much bleeding is too much and when the cramping should stop. Read ahead to learn about other physical symptoms to expect.

What Should I Expect With the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill is known as a medication abortion because it uses two drugs to terminate a pregnancy. The first drug, mifepristone, is highly regulated by the FDA. Only certified providers should prescribe it.

Some of the physical side effects include:

  • Cramping
  • Bleeding
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache

One of the risks with the abortion pill is an incomplete abortion, which can lead to infection. You should be aware of some of the physical symptoms of this risk, including:

  • Heavy bleeding – soaking two or more pads an hour for two hours
  • Severe abdominal or back pain
  • Fever lasting more than 24 hours
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge

What Should I Expect With a Surgical Abortion?

Abortion providers perform a Vacuum or Suction Aspiration if your pregnancy is still in the first trimester. As your pregnancy progresses, it is necessary to use other surgical tools, such as a sharp scraping tool or even forceps. 

A surgical procedure usually involves some form of anesthesia, general or local. It often requires dilating (opening) your cervix (which leads to the uterus), too. 

Surgical abortion might have the following physical symptoms:

  • Pain with the procedure
  • Allergic reaction to the sedation method
  • Cramping
  • Soreness

Contact your abortion provider if you experience the following:

  • Heavy bleeding
  • Foul-smelling drainage from your vagina
  • Fever and/or chills
  • Severe abdominal pain

How Can The Hope Clinic Assist Me?

Although we do not provide or refer for abortion, we can provide factual information about abortion procedures, the side effects to expect, and other potential risks. To avoid physical complications, you should also test for possible STIs before an abortion.

The Hope Clinic provides free testing, education, and treatment for certain STIs. Many STIs don’t have symptoms, which is why people often put off testing for them. But if you are considering an abortion, testing and treatment is essential.

Our nurses will be happy to answer your questions and assist you. All services at The Hope Clinic are free of charge. Make an appointment online or give the location nearest you a call. We care about your health and safety.