Facing an unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to be alone in this decision. If you’re considering abortion, it’s important to have accurate, medically reviewed, and non-judgmental information about the procedures available and the potential risks involved.
At Ava Health, we prioritize your health and well-being. We offer no-cost, confidential pregnancy services to support you as you navigate your options. Our licensed medical team is here to answer your questions with compassion and care.
In this guide, we’ll explain the different types of abortion, detail how each procedure works, highlight the potential side effects and risks, and discuss the critical information you need before making a decision.
What Is Abortion?
Abortion is a medical process that ends a pregnancy. In the United States, there are two main types of abortion procedures:
- Medication Abortion (also known as the abortion pill)
- Surgical Abortion
Each method works differently and comes with its own risks, considerations, and timeframes. Abortion procedures are legally regulated, and available options can vary depending on how far along you are in your pregnancy and the state laws where you live.
Why Is It Important to Understand Your Options?
Making a decision about an unexpected pregnancy is significant and can have emotional, physical, and psychological impacts. Being fully informed about your options, the risks involved, and what to expect allows you to:
- Protect your physical health
- Make empowered decisions
- Prepare emotionally and mentally for the outcome
- Know your rights and legal protections
At Ava Health, we believe that knowledge is power. That’s why we offer medically accurate information.
Overview of Abortion Procedures
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Medication Abortion (The Abortion Pill)
What is a Medication Abortion?
A medication abortion uses a combination of two drugs to end an early pregnancy. It is FDA-approved for use up to 10 weeks gestation (70 days since the first day of your last menstrual period).
How Does a Medication Abortion Work?
Medication abortion is a two-step process:
- Mifepristone:
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- Blocks progesterone, a hormone essential to support pregnancy growth.
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- Without progesterone, the uterine lining breaks down, prompting detachment of the implanted embryo.
2. Misoprostol (taken 24–48 hours later):
- Without progesterone, the uterine lining breaks down, prompting detachment of the implanted embryo.
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- Causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue through the vagina.
The process is completed at home or in a clinical setting, depending on healthcare provider guidance and state regulations.
What to Expect During a Medication Abortion
After taking the medications, you can expect:
- Heavy vaginal bleeding (heavier than a normal period)
- Abdominal cramping
- Passing blood clots and tissue
Other common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever or chills
- Fatigue
- Headache
Risks of Medication Abortion
While relatively safe when properly administered, risks can occur and may require medical attention:
- Heavy, prolonged bleeding (potentially leading to anemia)
- Incomplete abortion (requiring surgical intervention)
- Ongoing pregnancy (if the drugs fail to end the pregnancy)
- Uterine infection
- Severe abdominal pain
In rare cases, complications from an incomplete abortion or infection can become life-threatening if not treated promptly.
2. Surgical Abortion
What is a Surgical Abortion?
A surgical abortion involves a medical procedure to physically remove pregnancy tissue from the uterus using surgical instruments and/or suction.
Surgical abortions are typically offered in medical clinics and hospitals and vary depending on gestational age.
Types of Surgical Abortion Procedures
- Suction Aspiration (Vacuum Aspiration)
- Performed up to 14–16 weeks gestation
- Involves suctioning of the fetus from the uterus
- Generally completed in 10–15 minutes
2.Dilation and Curettage (D&C)
- Used for early second-trimester pregnancies
- Involves scraping the uterine lining after dilation
3.Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) - Used after 16 weeks of pregnancy
- Involves suction and surgical instruments to remove fetal parts
- Requires greater cervical dilation and carries increased risk compared to earlier procedures
What to Expect During a Surgical Abortion
- Preparation: Cervical dilation is often needed, sometimes a day before the procedure.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia may be used.
- Procedure Time: The procedure is usually completed within 15–30 minutes.
- Recovery: Observation usually takes place for a few hours afterward for complications; full physical recovery happens within a few weeks.
Common Side Effects After Surgical Abortion
- Cramping
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Emotional fluctuations
Risks of Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion carries potential complications, including:
- Infection
- Damage to the cervix
- Uterine perforation (a hole punctured in the uterus)
- Excessive bleeding (hemorrhage)
- Formation of scar tissue on the uterine wall (Asherman’s syndrome)
- Future fertility risks (especially if complications are untreated)
- Sepsis
- Incomplete Abortion
- Allergic Reaction to Drugs
As with any medical procedure, understanding and monitoring for signs of complications is critical.
Emotional Considerations After Abortion
Abortion can affect emotional and mental health differently for everyone. Some women report feelings of relief, while others may experience sadness, grief, guilt, or regret.
Common emotional responses may include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Sleep disturbances
- Relationship strain
- Changes in self-esteem
It’s important to seek emotional support if needed. Ava Health can provide referrals to counseling and emotional wellness services for patients seeking healing after abortion.
Steps to Take Before Making a Pregnancy Decision
Before deciding to pursue abortion—or any other pregnancy option—take these critical steps to protect your health and ensure you have all the information you need:
- Confirm Your Pregnancy
Even if you received a positive result on a home pregnancy test, medical-grade pregnancy testing is in your best interest for confirmation. Ava Health offers lab-quality urine pregnancy testing at no cost.
- Get an Ultrasound
An ultrasound provides essential information:
- Gestational age (how far along you are)
- Pregnancy viability (presence of a heartbeat)
- Pregnancy location (to ensure pregnancy is in the uterus)
Without an ultrasound, it’s difficult to make a fully informed decision.
- Understand All Your Options
You have three legal options when facing an unexpected pregnancy:
- Abortion
- Adoption
- Parenting
At Ava Health, we offer comprehensive medical education to help you explore each path in a non-judgmental environment.
- Learn About Legal Regulations
Abortion laws vary by state and can influence your options. Be aware of:
- Mandatory waiting periods
- Gestational limits
- Parental consent laws (for minors)
- Informed consent requirements
A licensed medical provider can help you navigate these regulations based on your location.
Note: We do not perform or refer for abortions at Ava Health.
Compassionate, No-Cost Care at Ava Health
At Ava Health, your health, safety, and autonomy are our top priorities. We provide:
- No-cost pregnancy testing
- Limited first and second-trimester obstetric ultrasounds
- Comprehensive medical education about your options
- Referrals for prenatal care, emotional support, and community resources
While Ava Health does not perform or refer for abortion services, we are committed to offering you accurate information and compassionate care so you can make the best decision for your future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is abortion safe?
When performed by licensed medical professionals, abortion does generally not cause major physical complications. However, all medical procedures carry risks, and it’s important to understand them before making a decision.
How long does it take to recover after an abortion?
Most women recover physically within a few days to weeks. Emotional recovery varies from person to person.
Can abortion affect my future fertility?
Most women can become pregnant again after abortion. However, complications like infection or uterine scarring can impact future fertility if left untreated.
What support is available after an abortion?
Counseling, peer support groups, and emotional wellness services are available to help individuals process their experiences and find healing.
Conclusion: Empower Yourself with Knowledge and Care
Choosing whether to continue a pregnancy is a life-changing decision. Understanding the types of abortion, the risks involved, and what support is available can help you make the best choice for your health and future.
At Ava Health, you are never alone. We are here to provide confidential, compassionate care every step of the way.
Contact Ava Health today or schedule your no-cost, confidential appointment to begin the journey with trusted care and accurate information.
Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. For personalized guidance, please consult with your primary healthcare provider, as we are a screening clinic.
Sources
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American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Frequently Asked Questions: Induced Abortion. ACOG, Jan. 2024, https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/induced-abortion. -
Guttmacher Institute.
“Abortion in the United States: Incidence and Access.” Guttmacher Institute, 2023, https://www.guttmacher.org/fact-sheet/induced-abortion-united-states. -
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
“Mifepristone (Mifeprex)” FDA.gov, 28 Apr. 2017, https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifepristone-mifeprex.