If you’re considering an abortion, it’s important to understand the process, considerations, and potential risks before making a pregnancy decision.
There are two types of abortion: a medical abortion and a surgical abortion. Getting an ultrasound is an important step if you are pregnant because it provides medical details that may affect your options.
The Hope Clinic is here for you while you learn about your options. We offer free medical-grade pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and STD testing at our clinic to protect your health and gain clarity about your pregnancy.
Contact us to make an appointment.
Medical Abortion (The Abortion Pill)
A medical abortion, also known as the abortion pill, is FDA-approved through 10 weeks of gestation.
This process involves using two drugs to end a pregnancy. The first drug, mifepristone, works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is needed for the pregnancy to continue. The second drug, misoprostol, is taken 24 to 48 hours later and causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through cramping and vaginal bleeding.
Cramping and bleeding are expected after taking the abortion pill and may be more severe than some women expect. Other side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, chills, or headache.
Potential risks of a medical abortion include an incomplete abortion, heavy and prolonged bleeding, or an infection.
Surgical Abortion
A surgical abortion happens in a clinical setting, the provider uses suction and/or surgical instruments to end the pregnancy and remove the pregnancy tissue from the uterus. Types of surgical abortion include vacuum aspiration, dilation and curettage (D&C), and dilation and evacuation (D&E).
These procedures involve dilating the cervix, and pain management options may include local anesthesia or sedation, depending on the procedure and provider.
The side effects of a surgical abortion include light bleeding or spotting and mild cramping for a few days after the procedure.
There are also risks to be aware of, including damage to the uterus or cervix due to the sharp instruments, infection, and scar tissue on the uterine wall, which is also known as Asherman’s Syndrome.
The Importance of an Ultrasound
Confirming your pregnancy with an ultrasound is an important step before you make any pregnancy decisions.
A limited ultrasound can show:
- Whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus
- How far along the pregnancy is
- Whether the pregnancy appears to be developing
This information is important because it can help identify conditions such as an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage that may require medical follow-up.
An ectopic pregnancy happens when the fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus and is not a viable pregnancy. It cannot be treated with the abortion pill and requires immediate medical attention, as it can cause life-threatening internal bleeding if left untreated.
Approximately 10-20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage. It is still possible to get a positive pregnancy test result despite having miscarried due to the remaining levels of hCG in the body.
Get the Facts at The Hope Clinic
You do not have to navigate this unexpected pregnancy alone. We are here to help, whether you need pregnancy confirmation services or someone to talk to about your options. Our team is here to provide accurate information in a judgment-free environment.
You deserve the time, space, and respect to figure out what you want.
Reach out to schedule your appointment today.
The Hope Clinic does not provide or refer for abortions.