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Getting an Abortion: The Complete Guide

If you’re considering abortion, you may have questions like “How late can you get an abortion?”, “How much does the abortion pill cost?”, or “What is the process of a medication abortion?” Understanding your pregnancy, the available procedures, and potential side effects can help you make an informed decision. This guide explains what to know before abortion, including how the abortion pill works, possible side effects, and why pregnancy testing and ultrasound are important first steps

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What Is Abortion?

Abortion is the medical process of ending a pregnancy. There are two main types of abortion: 

  • Medical abortion (also known as the abortion pill) 
  • Surgical abortion 

The type of abortion available to you depends on factors such as how far along your pregnancy is, your overall health, and access to care. 

Medical Abortion (or the abortion pill)

What is a medical abortion? 

A medical abortion involves taking two prescription medications: 

  1. Mifepristone works by blocking progesterone, a hormone essential to maintaining pregnancy. 
  2. Misoprostol, taken 24–48 hours later, causes uterine contractions that expel the pregnancy tissue through the vagina. 

When can you take the abortion pill?

The FDA approves medical abortion up to 10 weeks gestation. After this point, the effectiveness of the medication decreases, and the risk of complications increases. 

What are the side effects of the abortion pill?

  • Moderate to severe abdominal cramping 
  • Vaginal bleeding, often heavier than a typical menstrual period 
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea 

These symptoms typically begin within a few hours of taking misoprostol and may last several days. 

What are the risks of the abortion pill?

  • Heavy and prolonged bleeding: sometimes requiring medical attention. 
  • Ongoing pregnancy
  • Fever or severe infection that may indicate a uterine infection (dangerous if untreated)
  • Gastrointestinal discomfort

To read more in-depth about the abortion pill, see Understanding the Abortion Pill.

Surgical Abortion (in-clinic abortion)

What is a surgical abortion? 

A surgical abortion is a procedure to remove pregnancy tissue from the uterus. Methods vary depending on gestational age: 

  • Aspiration or suction abortion: Usually performed up to 14–16 weeks
  • Dilation and evacuation (D&E): Typically used for pregnancies beyond 14 weeks

What is a surgical abortion like?

Surgical abortion is performed in a clinical setting and may involve: 

  • Sedation or anesthesia 
  • Use of dilators to open the cervix 
  • Suction devices and/or surgical instruments to remove pregnancy tissue 

The entire procedure generally takes less than 30 minutes, though recovery may take a few hours. 

What are the side effects of a surgical abortion?

Following a surgical abortion, you may experience: 

  • Cramping 
  • Light to moderate bleeding 
  • Fatigue 

What are the risks of getting a surgical abortion?

  • Infection
  • Damage to the cervix
  • Uterine perforation
  • Scar tissue (Asherman’s syndrome)
  • Hemorrhaging

To learn more about what to expect, including pain and recovery, see Pain, Recovery, and What to Expect with Each Abortion Option.

Pro Tip

Do I need to know how far along I am to get an abortion?

Yes! Gestational age is important in determining what abortion method will be the most effective. This is why it's important to get an ultrasound before an abortion.

  • The FDA only approves the abortion pill up to 10 weeks. 
  • After 10 weeks gestation, the abortion pill is less effective and your recommended abortion choices change. 

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Will an abortion affect me emotionally?

Post- abortion experiences vary widely between individuals. Some women experience: 

  • Relief 
  • Sadness 
  • Guilt or regret 
  • Anxiety or depression 
  • Grief 

Studies show that while many women feel confident in their decision, others benefit from post-abortion support. If you are feeling unsure or overwhelmed, Ava Health offers referrals to trusted counseling services and emotional support resources. Check out Understanding the Mental Health Effects of Abortion for more info.

Next Steps

  1. Confirm the Pregnancy
  • Verify your pregnancy with a medical-grade pregnancy test.
  1. Get an Ultrasound
  • Can determine how far along you are in pregnancy (gestational age)
  • Will tell you whether the pregnancy is developing 
  • Whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus or is ectopic
  1. Understand All Your Options
  • Abortion 
  • Adoption 
  • Parenting 
  1. Learn the Legal and Medical Guidelines
  • Understand your states abortion laws
  • Find out if there waiting periods
  • Find out what parental consent rules exist

If you live in Oregon, Understanding Abortion Laws may help you understand what is legal in our state and what isn’t.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is abortion safe? 

Abortion doesn’t typically lead to severe physical problems or conditions when performed under proper medical supervision. However, like any procedure, it carries potential risks and side effects that should not be overlooked. 

Does abortion affect my fertility? 

In most cases, abortion does not affect long-term fertility. However, complications such as infection or uterine damage can increase the risk of future reproductive issues. A history of abortion poses higher risk of conditions such as placenta previa and pre-term birth in subsequent pregnancies. 

How do I know if an abortion worked?

Typically, abortion side effects will clear up after about two weeks. However, signs of complications after an abortion may include: 

  • Heavy bleeding (soaking two or more pads per hour) 
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge 
  • High fever 
  • Severe abdominal pain 
  • Persistent symptoms after a few days 

If you experience any of these, seek medical attention immediately.

What if i'm not sure what to do?

If you’re feeling unsure, it’s okay to pause and seek support. Ava Health offers a safe space to discuss your feelings and explore your options with trained professionals. 

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Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. We do not refer for or perform abortions. For personalized guidance, please consult with your primary healthcare provider, as we are a screening clinic. 

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