Know Your Options.
One of your options when facing a pregnancy decision is abortion. Deciding to terminate a pregnancy is never an easy choice. Like each of the other options, it is important to be educated on what each path holds before making the decision. There are several factors to consider before getting an abortion, such as gestational age, potential risks, and the type of abortion.
What is abortion?
Abortion is a procedure with the intent to end a pregnancy by removing either the embryo or fetus from the uterus.
The terms embryo and fetus both refer to a developing baby inside the uterus. The distinction between them is made based upon how far along into the pregnancy a woman is. The embryo phase represents the earlier stages in pregnancy. During this period the heart starts beating, organs develop, and the brain and spinal cord begin to form. After 11 weeks into the pregnancy, the embryo is then referred to as a fetus and will continue to grow and develop. By the 12th week, the fetus’s arms, legs, and most of the organs have formed.
What are the methods?
Abortions can be performed either medically or surgically, depending on how far along a woman is in the pregnancy. Getting an ultrasound will help to determine this.
Medical abortions, also known as the “abortion pill”, RU-486, or Mifeprex™, are typically only performed within the first 10 weeks after a woman’s period. This procedure is actually the effort of two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol, that are administered orally at home.
The mifepristone medication works by blocking the action of progesterone, which is a necessary hormone produced by the body that supports a pregnancy. The misoprostol medication works by causing the uterus to contract and clear the uterus of the developing baby.
Surgical abortions are for pregnancies that are farther along. There are two types, aspiration abortion and dilation and evacuation (D&E) abortion. The type a woman receives is determined by the gestational age of the pregnancy. Before the15th week of pregnancy, women receive an aspiration abortion, while D&E abortions are typically performed at 15 weeks or after. These types of surgical abortions are performed either in a clinic setting or a hospital where medical personnel will use different instruments and/or medications (depending upon the method) to clear the uterus and end the pregnancy.
Are there any risks?
Like other medical procedures, abortions do have potential side effects. These include heavy bleeding and cramping, pain, nausea, headache, vomiting, or diarrhea. Following an abortion, there is a range of psychological and emotional responses that can occur. These feelings range from calm, happiness, and relief, to shame, guilt, depression, and regret.
We are here for you!
Our advocates are ready to answer any questions you may have, listen to your hopes and concerns, and empower you for tomorrow in a compassionate and judgment-free environment. You do not need to face this decision alone!
If you, or someone you know, are facing this decision and are thinking of getting an abortion, contact our Center today. There you can schedule a pregnancy test, an ultrasound appointment, choose a time to talk to an advocate, or find more evidence-based education to assist you in your decision.
Disclaimer: We do not provide or refer for abortions or abortifacients at our center. Information is provided as an educational service and should not be relied on as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.