Abortion is a procedure that results in the termination of a pregnancy. If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy, you may be considering abortion as an option. Abortion is a medical procedure, and you should always discuss it with a medical professional before making a decision. At Alpha Center in Fort Collins, our nurses are here to answer your questions about abortion without judgment.

Types of Abortion

Depending on how far along you are in your pregnancy, different procedures may be available to you. You will need an ultrasound to determine how far along the pregnancy is and whether the pregnancy is viable before deciding which could be right for you.

The Abortion Pill (<10 weeks)

A medical abortion (often referred to as the abortion pill or chemical abortion) uses a series of medications to terminate and dispel of a pregnancy. Medical abortion is only available early in pregnancy and is typically not available for pregnancy further along than ten weeks.

Mifepristone, the first of the two pills, cuts off the supply of progesterone to the pregnancy. Progesterone is vital for the pregnancy to continue, and without it, the pregnancy will terminate. The first pill is usually taken in a clinic, and the second, misoprostol, is taken at home. Misoprostol causes your uterus to contract and dispel the pregnancy through the vaginal canal.

Surgical Abortion (>10 weeks)

Surgical abortion, sometimes called a procedural abortion, is used later in pregnancy and involves the dilation of the cervix and removal of the pregnancy with suction, forceps, curettes, or other surgical tools. Depending on your provider, general or local anesthetic may be available during the procedure.

I am considering abortion. What is my first step? 

If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy and considering abortion, your first step is to speak to a medical professional. At Alpha Center in Fort Collins, our nurses are here to discuss abortion with you. We want to provide you with the most updated medical information about abortion and help you make an educated choice for your unplanned pregnancy. Request an Appointment at Alpha Center today!

Alpha Center does not provide or refer for abortions, nor do abortion clinics require referrals.