Is Abortion or Adoption Right for Me?

If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, thinking about your options can feel overwhelming. Abortion and adoption are two very different, permanent options, so it’s important to fully understand how each one works so that you can be empowered to make the best decision for you. 

How Does Abortion Work? 

Abortion is the act of terminating a pregnancy. There are two main types of abortion: medical and surgical. 

A medical abortion involves two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone is taken first and works by blocking progesterone, the hormone needed to sustain a pregnancy. Misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours later, and it causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy. 

A medical abortion isn’t FDA-approved past 10 weeks of pregnancy. It’s also associated with risks, including heavy bleeding and incomplete abortion, and it’s not recommended if you have certain medical conditions or histories, including bleeding or anemia disorders, heart or kidney disease, or if you’re taking steroids or other specific medications. 

There are different forms of surgical abortion, but each one involves dilating, or opening, the cervix to remove the pregnancy with a medical device. The risks associated with this type of abortion include infection, heavy bleeding, cervical damage, and uterine scarring, which can cause painful menstrual periods and infertility. 

With both types of abortion, there are also mental and emotional effects. One study found that women who received an abortion were 81% more likely to suffer from mental health issues compared to women who carried to term. 

How Does Adoption Work? 

Adoption is the choice to carry your pregnancy to term and let another family raise the baby. However, there are different choices within adoption. These include open, semi-open, and closed adoption. 

Open adoption allows you and the adoptive family to communicate openly after the baby is born. In this option, you can choose how often or little you interact. 

Semi-open adoption is when you and the adoptive family have limited communication, and it usually occurs through a mediator, like the adoption agency. 

Closed adoption means there is no communication between you and the adoptive family, and they know nothing about you except for limited medical information. 

Next Steps

An unplanned pregnancy can be scary, but you’re not alone. Whether you’re considering abortion or adoption, talking to someone about your options can help you work through what’s best for you. Here at First Concern Pregnancy Resource Center, we provide a listening ear and free resources in a welcoming environment. Contact us today for a confidential appointment.