Thinking about abortion often brings up many questions. What procedures are there, and how do they work? And what risks should you know about before making a decision?
Abortion is a medical or surgical procedure that ends a pregnancy, but the method used depends on factors like how far along you are and your personal health history.
Before considering any pregnancy option, it’s essential to confirm your pregnancy with lab-quality testing and an ultrasound. At Friends for Life Pregnancy Center in Searcy, we provide these services at no cost so you can move forward with accurate information. Schedule a no-cost appointment today.
While all types of abortion in Arkansas are banned except in cases of life endangerment, it’s still helpful to know the following details.
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion can happen at any time in pregnancy (depending on state laws), but it is usually performed later in pregnancy. It’s typically more expensive and invasive than medical abortion.
The procedure ends a pregnancy by first dilating the opening of the uterus (cervix) with drugs or medical instruments. Then, the provider will use suction or surgical tools to remove the pregnancy from the uterus. This surgical procedure is performed in a clinic or hospital setting, typically with local anesthesia or sedation.
Women may experience abdominal cramping and light vaginal bleeding afterward. Risks can include infection, uterine perforation (poking a hole in the uterus), damage to the cervix, or scar tissue formation on the wall of the uterus, which can affect fertility.
While risks are not guaranteed to happen, they should be considered strongly before proceeding.
Medical Abortion (The Abortion Pill)
Medical abortion, sometimes called the abortion pill, is FDA-approved through the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. It involves two drugs:
- Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the pregnancy to continue.
- Misoprostol, taken about hours or days later, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping. Blood clots up to the size of a lemon are considered normal after taking this drug.
All women who undergo a medical abortion will experience abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding. However, the pain and amount of bleeding can differ.
Other possible side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, chills, and fever. Risks may include incomplete abortion, heavy bleeding, infection, digestive system discomfort, and fever.
Why an Ultrasound Matters
While both types of abortion end a pregnancy by emptying the uterus, they come with different procedures, side effects, and risks. An ultrasound is a critical first step because it provides clarity—showing how far along you are, whether the pregnancy is in the uterus, and if a miscarriage has already occurred.
At Friends for Life Pregnancy Center, we offer no-cost and confidential ultrasounds along with pregnancy testing in a supportive environment. Schedule your appointment today to learn more about your pregnancy and explore all your options.
FAQs
How do I know if the abortion pill is an available option?
It depends on how many weeks pregnant you are and your health history. An ultrasound is the only way to confirm your gestational age. Talking with a help professional will help you understand your specific risks.
Can abortion increase my risk of complications with future pregnancies?
Some complications, such as infection or uterine scarring, can impact future fertility, but not every woman experiences these issues.
What should I do if I’m unsure about my options?
Friends for Life Pregnancy Center can provide accurate information and a safe space to process your choices and resources.
