If you’re considering abortion, it’s essential to understand the risks involved with both medical and surgical procedures.
At Elevate Pregnancy and Family Resource Center, we’re here to provide accurate information and support, helping you make an informed decision about your health and future.
Read on to learn the essentials you need to know about abortion and its risks. Or, contact our office to find a safe space to talk and ask questions. All appointments are free and private.
Medical Abortion and Its Risks
A medical abortion (often referred to as the abortion pill) involves taking two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks the hormone needed to sustain pregnancy, while misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy out through the vagina.
Risks of medical abortion include:
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Incomplete abortion, which is when parts of the terminated pregnancy remain in your uterus
- Potentially life-threatening infection
- Fever
Surgical Abortion and Its Risks
A surgical abortion involves the dilation of the cervix so that medical instruments, like strong suction, scraping tools, and/or forceps can enter the uterus to remove the pregnancy.
Risks of surgical abortion include:
- Infection
- Uterine perforation, which is when one of the surgical instruments pokes a hole in your uterus
- Cervical damage, which can lead to painful periods and future infertility
Why an Ultrasound Is Critical Before an Abortion
Before seeking an abortion, it’s crucial to get an ultrasound. This simple scan provides vital information, such as:
- Confirming pregnancy viability (detecting a heartbeat)
- Determining gestational age (how far along you are)
- Ruling out ectopic pregnancy (a life-threatening condition where the pregnancy develops outside the uterus)
At Elevate Pregnancy and Family Resource Center, we offer free ultrasounds to ensure you have the critical information needed to protect your health.
We’re Here for You
You’re not alone in this—we’re here for you.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment. We’re here to support you with care, compassion, and the information you need to make the best choice for your future. We offer pregnancy testing and other essential services.
*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.