An unexpected pregnancy can bring tough choices, and if you’re considering abortion, knowing the risks is key to making a decision that’s right for you. Abortion comes in two forms: medical (the “abortion pill”) and surgical, each with its own process and potential complications.
At the Pregnancy Help Center, we’re here to share clear, factual information to help you navigate this moment. Keep reading to learn more about the physical and emotional risks of abortion.
Medical Abortion: What to Know
Medical abortion uses two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol, to end and expel a pregnancy. Mifepristone stops progesterone, the hormone that keeps a pregnancy going, while misoprostol triggers cramps and bleeding to empty the uterus.
It’s normal to feel side effects like cramping or nausea, but there are risks to watch for:
- The body not releasing all pregnancy tissue in the uterus, also called an incomplete abortion. This may require surgical abortion.
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work.
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding.
- Infection.
- Fever.
- Digestive symptoms such as upset stomach.
Surgical Abortion: Understanding the Risks
Surgical abortion, done in a clinic, involves dilating the cervix and using suction or tools like forceps to remove the pregnancy. It’s more common later in pregnancy and typically a one-visit procedure. You can expect to spend a few hours in a recovery room monitoring for excessive bleeding and complications.
The risks of surgical abortion include:
- Uterine perforation, where a tool accidentally punctures the uterus.
- Scarring inside the uterus might cause painful periods or fertility challenges.
- Cervical damage that could affect future pregnancies.
- Infection from bacteria or leftover tissue.
Mental Health Considerations
Your emotional well-being matters too. Feeling pressured into abortion by others can heighten the chance of mental health struggles, like anxiety or depression, afterward.
Studies show women who’ve had abortions often report higher rates of mental health issues compared to those who haven’t. Taking time to choose without coercion can make all the difference.
We’re Here to Support You
If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, the Pregnancy Help Center is here with free pregnancy confirmation appointments to verify your status and discuss your options, including vital information on abortion you’ll want to know.
Our team provides services and education in a safe, no-pressure space to help you make confident decisions. Contact us today for a free appointment—you’re not alone, and we’re ready to listen.
*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
