Abortion

Abortion is the only option that ends a pregnancy, and it’s a serious decision—one that involves potential side effects and health risks. Taking the time to fully understand this option can help you protect your well-being and feel more confident in your decision.

At Women First Pregnancy Center, we offer clear, factual information about all your options. Our goal is to equip you with knowledge, not pressure or judgment, so you can make an informed choice that’s right for you.

Understanding Abortion

Learning about the different types of abortion procedures can help you prepare for what they involve, both physically and emotionally. There are two primary methods:

Medical Abortion

Often referred to as the “abortion pill,” a medical abortion uses two drugs to end a pregnancy. It is FDA-approved up to 10 weeks from a woman’s last menstrual period.

Mifepristone is the first pill that blocks the hormone progesterone, which is necessary to sustain a pregnancy. Without it, the pregnancy cannot continue. Misoprostol is taken next; this drug causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.

Possible side effects include:

• Cramping and bleeding
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Fever or chills
• Headache or dizziness

Potential risks may include:

• The body does not release all the pregnancy tissue in the uterus, also called an incomplete abortion. This may require surgical abortion.
• An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work.
• Heavy and prolonged bleeding.
• Infection.
• Fever.
• Digestive symptoms such as an upset stomach.

Surgical Abortion

Surgical abortion involves a procedure using surgical instruments, suction, and sometimes medication, depending on how far along the pregnancy is. Procedures are a D&C (dilation and curettage), which uses suction and a scraping tool, or a D&E (dilation and evacuation), which may require forceps to remove larger parts of the pregnancy.

After the procedure, it’s common to experience cramping and spotting for several days. However, surgical abortion can also carry risks such as:

• Damage to the cervix or uterus
• Uterine perforation (accidental injury with surgical tools)
• Infection
• Scar tissue that may affect future fertility or menstrual cycles

Free Support and Services

You deserve to know the whole picture before deciding about your pregnancy. Whatever path you’re considering, we’re here to help you explore it fully.

At Women First Pregnancy Center, we provide free, confidential services to support you. From pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds to education about your options, you’ll receive accurate information in a safe, respectful environment.

Make your free appointment today. You don’t have to navigate this alone.