Considering Abortion?
If you think you may be pregnant and are considering abortion, you likely have questions about your options, your health, and what comes next. Zoe, A Women’s Center provides free, confidential appointments so you can understand your pregnancy and make an informed decision without pressure.
Confirm Your Pregnancy First
Before making any pregnancy decision, it’s important to confirm:
that the pregnancy is viable
how far along you are
your available options based on gestational age
Zoe offers free medical-grade pregnancy testing and limited-obstetric ultrasounds to help provide the information you need before making a decision.
What is abortion?
Abortion is a medical procedure intended to end a pregnancy by removing the embryo or fetus from the uterus.
The terms embryo and fetus both refer to a developing baby during pregnancy. These terms are used based on how far along the pregnancy is.
During the early weeks of pregnancy, the developing baby is referred to as an embryo. During this stage, major development begins, including the formation of the heart, brain, spinal cord, and organs. Around 11 weeks of pregnancy, the term fetus is used as growth and development continue throughout the remainder of pregnancy.
Abortion Methods
Abortions may be performed using medication or through a surgical procedure, depending largely on how far along the pregnancy is. An ultrasound is typically used to determine gestational age and help identify which procedures may be available.
Medication Abortion (Abortion Pill)
Medication abortion — sometimes called the abortion pill, RU-486, or Mifeprex® — is typically used during the early weeks of pregnancy, generally up to 10 weeks after a woman’s last menstrual period.
This method involves two medications:
Mifepristone, which blocks progesterone, a hormone needed to support a pregnancy
Misoprostol, which causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue
These medications are usually taken over the course of one to two days, often at home following an initial medical appointment.
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion procedures are typically performed later in pregnancy. The specific procedure depends on gestational age.
Common methods include:
Aspiration abortion, generally performed during earlier stages of pregnancy
Dilation and Evacuation (D&E), typically performed during later stages
These procedures are performed in a clinic or hospital setting by medical professionals using instruments and medications to remove pregnancy tissue from the uterus.
What are the potential risks and side effects?
Like any medical procedure, abortion may involve potential physical side effects. These can vary depending on the type of procedure and how far along the pregnancy is.
Possible physical side effects may include:
bleeding and cramping
nausea or vomiting
headache
diarrhea
abdominal discomfort or pain
Most side effects are temporary, but complications can occur in some cases. Speaking with a medical professional about your health history and pregnancy can help you better understand potential risks.
People may also experience a range of emotional responses following an abortion. Some individuals report feelings such as relief or resolution, while others may experience sadness, grief, guilt, or regret. Every person’s experience is different, and emotional responses can change over time.
We Are Here For You!
If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy and considering abortion, you don’t have to navigate this decision alone. Our caring team is here to listen to your questions, talk through your concerns, and provide accurate information in a compassionate, judgment-free environment.
You can schedule a free and confidential appointment for:
medical-grade pregnancy testing
a limited-obstetric ultrasound
a one-on-one conversation about your options
evidence-based pregnancy information
Take the time you need to understand your options and your next step.