Were you surprised when the pregnancy test showed positive? You may have felt a moment of disbelief, a rush of fear, or even thought, “No! I can’t do this!”
We completely understand. No one is fully prepared for an unplanned pregnancy. We imagine you may be considering abortion. In fact, you may be thinking abortion is your only option.
Explaining Abortion
Abortion is a medical method of terminating a pregnancy. How far along you are in your pregnancy determines what kind of abortion you can have. The decision to abort is never easy. It is life-changing. Are you asking yourself any of these questions?
- Do I have to have surgery?
- Will I regret my decision?
- Does it hurt to get an abortion?
- How much does it cost?
- I don’t have another choice, do I?
All of these questions are valid and we are here to answer them. You deserve to have the facts about abortion and all of your other options.
Types of Abortions
There are two types of abortion. How far along you are in your pregnancy determines what kind of abortion you have. That is why it is crucial to have a free lab-quality pregnancy test and ultrasound before making a decision. The ultrasound is the only way to tell the date of conception and how far along your pregnancy is.
Medication Abortion
The abortion pill (RU486) is known as a medication abortion. You can only have a medication abortion if your pregnancy has not progressed past nine or ten weeks. The farther along you are increases the risk of complications.
The abortion pill method is actually a series of two drugs. The first drug causes the lining of your uterus to thin so the embryo cannot stay implanted thereby ending the pregnancy. The second drug causes your uterus to cramp to help your body expel the pregnancy. It’s important to be in a private location because the procedure may cause bleeding, cramps, nausea, or diarrhea.
Surgical Abortion
If you’re further than nine or ten weeks along, the abortion pill won’t be an option for you. You will need to have a surgical abortion. A surgical abortion is an invasive procedure that must be performed in a medical clinic with medical staff.
There are a number of different types, depending on how far along your pregnancy is, but all involve injections, dilation and a suction device. The side effects are more intense and there is a greater possibility for long-term complications. You should always make sure the clinic knows how to handle any complications that might arise during your abortion procedure.
Side Effects and Possible Risks
Whether you’re considering the abortion pill or a surgical option, it’s important to remember abortion is a serious medical procedure. Like any other procedure, it comes with a variety of side effects, risks, and long-term impact.
Common side effects include:
- Excessive bleeding, including hemorrhaging
- Cramping
- Nausea and vomiting
- Possible infection that could lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
- Damage to cervix or a perforated uterus
- Inability to have future children
It is also important to mention that many women experience emotional and psychological side effects after an abortion. Some women have an overwhelming sense of guilt, loss, and regret.
More Specific Information
Be aware of all of the potential side effects and risks as you make your decision. If you have other questions or want to know more details about each abortion procedure, please call us. We want you to be fully informed.
Remember, you need to have a pregnancy test and ultrasound before you can begin the abortion process. We offer both at no cost to you. You do not have to make this decision alone. We are here for you. Talk with us before making a decision about your unplanned pregnancy.
*Carolina Pregnancy Center does not perform or refer for abortion