How Does Abortion End My Pregnancy?

How Does Abortion End My Pregnancy?

An unexpected pregnancy raises many questions. If abortion is one of the options you’re considering, understanding how each method works, including what to expect and what the risks are, is an important part of making an informed decision about your health.

First Concern Pregnancy Resource Center offers free, confidential pregnancy testing and consultations, during which our medical team provides honest, accurate information about all available options. No pressure, no judgment.

If your pregnancy test is positive, you may also qualify for an on-site ultrasound referral before making any decisions. Schedule your free appointment today.

Two Ways Abortion Ends a Pregnancy

Abortion generally occurs in one of two ways: through drugs that end the pregnancy (medical abortion or the abortion pill) or through a procedure that removes the pregnancy from the uterus (surgical abortion). 

Each method depends on how far along the pregnancy is and other individual health considerations. Both have potential risks and side effects that are important to understand beforehand.

Medical Abortion (The Abortion Pill)

Medical abortion involves two drugs taken at different stages: mifepristone and misoprostol.

Mifepristone is taken first to block progesterone, a hormone needed to support pregnancy. Misoprostol is taken 24 to 48 hours later to cause cramping, bleeding, and contractions that expel the pregnancy from the uterus.

This drug combination is FDA-approved through 10 weeks of gestation. Gestational age is important because the effectiveness of the drugs decreases as pregnancy progresses, and the risk of complications may increase.

Like any medical procedure, medical abortion can cause side effects, such as:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fever or chills
• Headache

Risks to be aware of include:

• An incomplete abortion requiring follow-up surgical treatment
• Ongoing pregnancy if the procedure does not work
• Heavy or prolonged bleeding
• Infection
• Fever
• Digestive symptoms such as an upset stomach

Surgical Abortion

A surgical abortion takes place in a clinical setting and removes the pregnancy from the uterus using suction, surgical instruments, or both. Depending on how far along the pregnancy is, different procedures may be used, including dilation and curettage (D&C), which may involve a surgical instrument called a curette. Sedation or anesthesia may be used to help manage pain and discomfort during the procedure.

Side effects following the procedure may include:

• Cramping
• Light bleeding or spotting

Known risks include:

• A hole in the uterine wall caused by a surgical instrument
• Damage to the cervix
• Internal scarring that may affect future fertility
• Infection

Start With Answers: Pregnancy Testing and Ultrasound

Before making any pregnancy decision, it is important to confirm your results with a pregnancy test and learn more about your health through an ultrasound. First Concern PRC offers confidential pregnancy testing and ultrasound referrals to help provide the information you need. 

Contact First Concern Pregnancy Resource Center today to schedule an appointment and receive compassionate support and care.

First Concern Pregnancy Resource Center does not provide or refer for abortions.

The Marlborough location provides pregnancy testing and ultrasounds. The Clinton location provides other resources, support, and education.