When a woman chooses to terminate a pregnancy, it’s an incredibly personal choice. You may feel pressured by people in your life or want it for yourself so you can stay on track with other life plans.
Whatever your reasons, it’s important to do your research just like you would before scheduling any other type of medical procedure. Read this article for the different types of abortions, and important health screenings to schedule before moving forward with an abortion.
Different Types of Abortion
Medical
A chemical abortion is for up to 10 weeks (70 days) gestation. First, you take mifepristone which stops the pregnancy by blocking an essential hormone.
When the uterine lining begins to thin, the second medication, misoprostol, is taken. This forces your uterus to contract and expel the fetus and uterine lining.
Surgical
A surgical abortion is a more invasive procedure than a medical abortion and will require an in-person visit. In Illinois, this type of abortion is allowed up to the age of viability (about 24 weeks).
The procedure begins with dilating your cervix (via a medication inserted vaginally or using a metal rod). It combines suction and other surgical tools, such as a curette, after the suction to remove any pregnancy remnants.
What Are the Risks of Abortion?
Medical
The Mayo Clinic lists the following risks associated with medical abortion:
Incomplete abortion (may need to be followed by surgical abortion)
An ongoing unwanted pregnancy
Heavy/prolonged bleeding
Fever
Digestive system discomfort
Infection
Surgical
The Mayo Clinic lists the following as potential risks of surgical abortion:
Perforation of the uterus
Damage to the cervix
Infection
Scar tissue on the uterine wall
If you’re interested in getting pregnant in the future, there is a possible link between infants with low birth rates from mothers who have had prior abortions.
Next Steps
Now that you’re more familiar with the different types of abortions as well as any potential risks, it’s important to take control of your health by first getting an ultrasound screening. An ultrasound can confirm the age and viability of the pregnancy, which will determine the eligibility for an abortion. This also will eliminate the risk of an ectopic pregnancy, a life-threatening condition.
We offer no-cost ultrasounds at Mosaic Health & Pregnancy Centers which can give you the vital information you need to make the best decision for your health. You have options, and we are here to help you navigate through them!