There are two types of abortion: medical (also known as the “abortion pill”) or surgical. Your pregnancy’s gestational age is one of the main factors that determine which type of abortion you’re eligible for. 

This article will cover the essentials you need to know when it comes to medical and surgical abortions. Looking to talk to someone about your pregnancy and options? Contact Metro Women’s Center to schedule a free, confidential appointment.

Medical Abortion

Medical abortion involves two powerful drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. These drugs are taken without the oversight of a physician.

Mifepristone is taken first. It starts the abortion process by blocking progesterone. Without this necessary hormone, your uterine lining will loosen and shed, causing your pregnancy to detach and end.

Misoprostol is taken next, typically 24-48 hours later. This drug causes your uterus to cramp and expel the pregnancy out through your vagina.

After taking these drugs, you will experience vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping, which, in some cases, can be severe. Some women also witness the expelled embryo or fetus, which can be distressing for some women.

It’s important to know that abortion drugs are only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is 10 weeks gestation or under. If you take these drugs and you’re further along, you’re more likely to experience a risk, like incomplete abortion—this happens when parts of the terminated pregnancy remain in the uterus, and it can lead to heavy and prolonged bleeding and a potentially life-threatening infection.

Surgical Abortion

Surgical abortion is performed in a clinical setting, and it’s typically done later in pregnancy. 

The surgical abortion process involves manually dilating the cervix so that medical instruments can enter the uterus to remove the pregnancy. Earlier in pregnancy, strong suction and scraping tools are used. However, later in pregnancy, other instruments like forceps are used to remove larger parts of the pregnancy.

One of the main risks of surgical abortion is uterine perforation, which is when one of the abortion instruments pokes a hole in your uterus. This can lead to painful menstrual periods or future infertility. 

How Can I Protect My Health?

When it comes to protecting your health, getting an ultrasound before seeking an abortion is critical. Ultrasound is a simple scan that can help reveal your pregnancy’s gestational age (which is vital information before seeking a medical abortion and refers to how far along you are), location, and viability (whether your pregnancy is progressing and has a heartbeat).

At Metro Women’s Center, we offer free referrals for a limited ultrasound to give you the information you need to stay safe. We also offer a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk, ask questions, and learn more about your options. 

You’re not alone in this. We’re here for you. Contact us today to get started. 

*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.