An unexpected pregnancy can raise more questions than answers sometimes. Whether you’re feeling unsure about your options or facing pressure from loved ones to make a decision, it’s important to have all the facts before moving forward.
Read on to learn more about the potential impacts abortion can have on your physical and mental well-being, as well as what it means for you.
What is Medical Abortion?
Medical abortion, known by many as the abortion pill, is often the method of termination used in the first 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Medical abortion consists of two drugs – mifepristone and misoprostol.
First, mifepristone is administered to block progesterone, which causes the pregnancy to detach and stop growing.
Misoprostol is administered next to create uterine contractions, which leads your body to expel the pregnancy through the vagina.
Physical and Mental Health Risks of Medical Abortion
When the body passes the pregnancy, bleeding and cramping are to be expected. However, there is potential for other physical health risks, which may include:
- Incomplete abortion (which may require follow-up surgical abortion)
- Prolonged heavy bleeding
- Infection (signs of infection include foul-smelling vaginal discharge and fever lasting more than 24-48 hours)
- Diarrhea and digestive pain
While many women often consider how their physical health may be impacted by termination, they may be unaware of the potential mental health impacts.
Some women may expect to feel a sense of grief, loss, or even relief, but it’s critical also to recognize that post-abortive women are at an increased risk for the following mental health conditions:
- Major depression
- Anxiety
- Nervous disorders
- Sleep disturbance
- Substance abuse
Pre-Abortion Consultation
Along with considering the general health risks of abortion, it’s vital to take a closer look at your health and pregnancy before terminating.
Certain health conditions can increase your risk of abortion complications or change whethere the abortion pill is an option for you.
Additionally, an ultrasound scan can provide critical information about the pregnancy’s age, location, and viability, which all play a key role in what’s available.
Get Help Today
Navigating an unplanned pregnancy can feel incredibly isolating. You might feel like no one truly understands what you’re going through.
When you feel like you have no one else to turn to, Alpha Pregnancy Care Center wants to support you in any way we can.
We offer free lab-quality pregnancy tests and ultrasound scans. After learning more about your pregnancy, our trusted staff can answer your questions and discuss your options.
Contact us today for your confidential appointment.
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