Basically, a medical abortion is an abortion type that uses drugs to end a pregnancy. It usually begins in a medical clinic, under the guidance of a physician, and is often completed at home.
Having any type of abortion, including medical, can have emotional and psychological consequences. There are also risks and side effects to consider.
At WaterLife PCC, we are here to provide you with all the important facts that you need to make an informed decision.
How Is a Medical Abortion Performed?
A medical abortion is performed by taking two different drugs. Women must be no further than nine weeks along (determined by ultrasound) to receive a medical abortion.
The first drug is mifepristone. This drug blocks the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for a pregnancy to continue.
Hours or days later, a second drug, misoprostol, is taken to trigger abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding. This usually takes place in the patient’s home.
What Are the Physical Side Effects and Risks of a Medical Abortion?
Misoprostol is designed to cause cramping and bleeding in order to expel the pregnancy from the uterus.
Other side effects of a medical abortion can include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Potential risks of a medical abortion can include:
- Incomplete abortion
- An ongoing pregnancy
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive System Discomfort
Can There Be Emotional Consequences?
Often women feel a whole range of emotions after a medical abortion. These can include relief, stress, sadness, or guilt.
Sometimes the emotions can increase or surface as time goes by. If you have had an abortion and are seeking guidance or support, please contact us.
Who Should NOT Have a Medical Abortion?
It is important to note that certain women should not have a medical abortion. These include women who…
- Are further than nine weeks along. The only way to find this out for sure is with an ultrasound.
- Have an ectopic pregnancy. Again, the best way to find this out is with an ultrasound.
- Have an IUD currently in place (it would need to be removed first)
- Are taking blood thinners or certain steroids.
- Have certain medical conditions or allergies to the drugs used.
- Can’t make follow-up appointments with the provider or access emergency care if needed.
Why Come to WaterLife If You Are Considering a Medical Abortion?
- We can provide you with no-cost pregnancy testing to make certain that you are pregnant.
- Next, we can provide an ultrasound (also at no cost to you) to tell you how far along the pregnancy is and to make certain that it is growing inside the uterus.
Contact WaterLife for a Pregnancy Options Consultation today. We will provide you with information to make the best decision for you.