What Are the Risks of Abortion?

Are you worried you may be pregnant? Early signs of pregnancy can vary, but the most common include a late period, tender breasts, and mood swings. 

Pregnancy can feel overwhelming, especially if you suddenly find yourself in that situation. It is common for women who don’t feel ready to seek out information on abortions. 

But before you set a termination appointment, it’s important to educate yourself on the types of abortions available and the risks associated with the procedures. 

What Abortions Are Available?

The timeframe for an elective abortion may vary from state to state, but the options remain the same: medical abortion or surgical abortion.

Medical Abortion

A medical abortion is designed for women less than 10 weeks pregnant. 

Better known as the abortion pill, a medical abortion uses two drugs to terminate a pregnancy. A doctor will prescribe mifepristone first, which works by blocking the hormone necessary for a pregnancy to grow. A dose of misoprostol is prescribed next and will cause strong uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy. 

Risks

All drugs come with risks and side effects. Knowing what to expect can help mitigate stress as an abortion proceeds. Side effects of a medical abortion include: 

– Incomplete abortion, which may require a surgical abortion

– Heavy and prolonged bleeding

– Infection or sepsis

– Fever

– Digestive system discomfort

– Damage to the womb 

Before you decide on a medical abortion, it is wise to schedule an ultrasound first. Ultrasounds are prescribed as early prenatal care to ensure there is even a viable pregnancy before considering termination options. Alpha Alternative Pregnancy Care Center offers no-cost ultrasounds as part of their medical care provided for women dealing with a pregnancy crisis. 

Surgical Abortion

Surgical abortions are typically utilized for women more than 10 weeks pregnant and performed in a clinic or hospital by a licensed medical professional. The process begins by numbing and opening the cervix. A suction device or forceps will then be inserted into the birth canal to remove the pregnancy. If some pregnancy tissue remains, a small instrument will be used to scrape the inside of the uterus. 

Risks

The documented risks of a surgical abortion include: 

• Perforation of the uterus
• Damage to the cervix
• Scar tissue on the uterine wall; a condition known as Asherman’s syndrome
• Infection

Protecting Your Mental Health

One of the lesser known risks of an abortion is mental health issues. Studies suggest that having an abortion significantly increases some women’s chances of developing depression or anxiety. 

If you have struggled with mental health issues in the past, it’s wise to talk with your doctor about how an abortion may impact your emotional wellbeing. Being prepared is better than being blind-sided. 

A Path To Wellness

At Alpha Pregnancy Care Center, women’s physical and emotional well-being is our top priority. Traveling out of state or taking medication ordered through the mail can increase a woman’s risk of health complications.

Our center offers a variety of no-cost services designed to support and encourage women in their pregnancy journey. Text us at (270) 216-0964 and find the best path for your wellness.