Are You Considering Abortion?
Many women facing an unplanned pregnancy feel their only option is abortion. If you are considering this option, you should first be aware of the procedures, side effects, and potential physical and emotional risks.
Your health and well-being are important to us. Our nurses are here to answer your questions and give you the information you need to make a confident choice.
Are There Different Types of Abortion?
There are two main types of abortion: medication and surgical. The procedure you qualify for is determined by how far along you are in your pregnancy.
Knowing the number of weeks you’ve been pregnant is critical, so we provide this information with a free ultrasound. Schedule your free and confidential ultrasound by filling out our online contact form or calling (970) 239-2272.
Medication Abortion (also known as the Abortion Pill Method)
The abortion pill method uses two drugs to terminate a pregnancy: mifepristone and misoprostol. The FDA has approved the use of medication abortion through 10 weeks of pregnancy only (70 days from the first day of your last menstrual period). However, the farther you are in your pregnancy, the less effective the drugs become.
All pregnancies require a hormone called progesterone to grow. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, causing the pregnancy to terminate. About 24-28 hours after Mifepristone is taken, Misoprostol is then taken. This medication causes contractions to expel the pregnancy from the body.
Surgical Abortion
Different surgical procedures depend on the length of your pregnancy. For a first-trimester pregnancy, an abortion provider performs a vacuum or suction aspiration. As your pregnancy progresses, surgical instruments such as a curette (a sharp scraping tool) and/or forceps are needed to remove the pregnancy.
Surgical abortions require the abortion provider to dilate (open) the cervix and use either general or local anesthesia.
What Are the Side Effects and Risks of Abortion?
Side effects of every abortion include bleeding and cramping. It is critical to know what to expect so you are prepared in case of an emergency. Other side effects include nausea, dizziness, and fever.
Risks of either a medical or surgical abortion include an incomplete abortion, which can lead to infection, heavy and prolonged bleeding, and damage to the cervix or uterus.
Do You Want More Information?
Our nurses can provide factual information regarding the various procedures, side effects to expect, and potential risks. Become fully informed before you choose abortion. Request an appointment at Alpha Center today.
Alpha Center does not provide or refer for abortions, nor do abortion clinics require referrals. Because of this, Alpha Center has no financial interest in your pregnancy decision.