When considering an abortion, it’s natural to have questions about how the process works and how it affects your body. 

At Women’s Clinics, we offer a neutral, private setting where you can learn about the methods used to end a pregnancy, what to expect physically, and how this option compares with other available options. Our team provides no-cost pregnancy services and supportive guidance so you can review the facts at your own pace and make an informed decision with confidence.

Reach out to schedule a pre-abortion screening to protect your health and safety.

All About Medical Abortion

A medical abortion, often called the “abortion pill,” uses two different drugs to end a pregnancy. 

The first drug, mifepristone, works by blocking progesterone, a hormone necessary for the pregnancy to continue. Without progesterone, the lining of the uterus breaks down, and the pregnancy stops developing. 

The second drug, misoprostol, is taken up to 48 hours later to cause the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy, typically within 12 to 24 hours.

This process involves heavy vaginal bleeding and intense abdominal cramping as the body expels the pregnancy and related tissue. Because this method is FDA-approved for use only through 10 weeks of pregnancy, knowing your exact gestational age is an important safety consideration.

Surgical Abortion Method

Surgical abortions are performed by an abortion provider in a hospital or clinic and involve the use of surgical instruments and specialized medical equipment. 

One method used is dilation and curettage (D&C), which requires the cervix to be dilated so the pregnancy tissue can be manually removed with suction and scraping. This specific approach taken depends on medical factors, individual circumstances, and state regulations.

After a surgical abortion, recovery commonly includes mild cramping and light vaginal bleeding for several days. As with any invasive procedure, there are potential medical risks to consider, such as infection, cervical injury, uterine perforation, or the formation of intrauterine scar tissue, which may have implications for future fertility.

The Necessity of an Ultrasound

An ultrasound is needed to confirm the pregnancy’s viability by detecting a fetal heartbeat, determining gestational age, and verifying that the pregnancy is located in the uterus. This also helps rule out an ectopic pregnancy, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical care.

Moving Forward with Clarity

Understanding how abortion affects your body is an important part of making an informed pregnancy decision. It can also be helpful to consider how this option compares with the other paths available to you and what best aligns with your health, circumstances, and future goals.

At Women’s Clinics, we are here to help you process both the health information and your personal concerns in a safe, private environment. Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential consultation and viability ultrasound so you can explore your options and move forward with greater clarity.

Women’s Clinics does not provide or refer for abortions.