When facing an unexpected pregnancy, learning about how different abortion methods work, what they may involve physically, and when they are typically used can help you approach the situation with greater understanding and confidence.
At the Pregnancy Help Center, we offer a calm and confidential setting where you can access free pregnancy services. Our team is here to offer accurate information and compassionate support as you consider your next steps.
Schedule a free, confidential appointment today.
Medical Abortion in Early Pregnancy
Medical abortion, often referred to as the abortion pill, is an FDA-approved regimen used in early pregnancy through 10 weeks. It involves two drugs taken in sequence:
- Mifepristone, which blocks progesterone, a hormone needed to sustain a pregnancy, causing the pregnancy to stop developing
- Misoprostol, taken one to two days later, causes uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy
Common physical effects may vary from person to person and can include:
- Cramping and bleeding (these side effects always occur when abortion drugs are taken)
- Side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chills, headache, or fever
Because this process unfolds over time and typically occurs outside of a clinical setting, follow-up care is recommended to confirm the abortion is complete and to check for possible complications like infection or excessive bleeding.
Surgical Abortion
A surgical abortion is performed by a medical provider in a clinical setting. In early pregnancy, the most common procedure is dilation and curettage (D&C). This procedure involves dilating the cervix and using suction or surgical instruments to remove the pregnancy from the uterus.
Possible risks can include infection, bleeding, or injury to the uterus or cervix. Recovery expectations, risks, and follow-up care should be discussed with a qualified medical provider.
Why Medical Confirmation Matters
Before considering any method, accurate medical information is essential. An ultrasound helps clarify three key factors:
- Gestational age (how far along you are), which determines what medical options may be available
- Viability, confirmed by the presence of a fetal heartbeat, since 1 in 5 known pregnancies ends naturally in miscarriage
- Location, ensuring the pregnancy is developing in the uterus and not ectopic, a condition that requires immediate medical care
Finding Clarity and Support
At the Pregnancy Help Center, we believe informed decisions begin with accurate medical information and a supportive, non-judgmental environment. That’s why we offer free services, like ultrasounds for qualified clients, to help you understand your pregnancy and explore your options at your own pace.
Our team is here to help you slow down, gather facts, and move forward with clarity and peace of mind. When you’re ready, connect with us to schedule a confidential appointment.
The Pregnancy Help Center does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
