Considering Abortion?
If you are facing an unexpected pregnancy and considering abortion, it’s important to gather accurate, medically based information before making a decision. Abortion is a medical procedure that can affect your body and health, and understanding what it involves can help you make a more informed choice.
Before pursuing any abortion procedure, it’s essential to confirm your pregnancy. An ultrasound provides critical information about how far along you are, whether the pregnancy is developing, and whether it is located in the uterus. These details matter for both safety and decision-making.
We provide free, confidential appointments where you can learn about abortion procedures, confirm your pregnancy with a limited OB ultrasound, and get your questions answered in a private, respectful setting. Your health and well-being are the priority.
What Is Abortion?
Abortion is a procedure that ends a pregnancy through drugs or a surgical procedure. The method used depends largely on how far along the pregnancy is and individual health factors.
We encourage you to become fully informed and gather all relevant facts so you can protect your health and make the best possible decision for your situation. Our team offers a safe place to explore all your options without pressure.
Types of Abortion
Medical Abortion (Abortion Pill)
Medical abortion typically involves two drugs. The first drug, mifepristone, blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for the pregnancy to grow and develop. The second drug, misoprostol, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy and tissue from the body.
This method is FDA-approved for use through 10 weeks of gestation.
Cramping and vaginal bleeding will occur, with some women reporting that these side effects were unexpectedly severe.
Possible side effects include:
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Fever or chills
- Headache or fatigue
Possible risks include:
- Heavy or prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- An incomplete abortion, which may require surgical treatment
- Ongoing pregnancy if the drugs do not work
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion is performed in a clinical setting using suction and/or surgical instruments to remove the pregnancy. The specific procedure used depends on gestational age (how far along you are in the pregnancy).
Common side effects may include:
- Cramping
- Light spotting or bleeding
Possible risks include:
- Damage to the cervix
- Uterine perforation (when an instrument punctures the uterine wall)
- Infection
- Scar tissue formation (Asherman’s syndrome), which may affect future fertility
Why Pregnancy Confirmation Matters
Before making any pregnancy-related decision, it’s essential to confirm:
- How far along you are
- Whether the pregnancy is viable
- Whether it is located in the uterus
An ultrasound helps clarify these details and protect your health. We offer pregnancy confirmation via a limited OB ultrasound at no cost to help you make informed decisions. This service is provided after a positive pregnancy test at our center.
What’s Next?
WRC will ensure you are fully informed about each of your options so you can make the decision that’s right for you. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, receive accurate information, and talk through your concerns in a confidential environment.
Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential appointment and speak with a caring team member.
Women’s Resource Center of Hancock County does not provide or refer for abortions.