What are the Different Types of Abortion?

There are two main types of abortion: medical and surgical abortion. You could be debating whether you want an abortion or not, going back and forth between pregnancy options. Making a decision can be stressful and even confusing at times. 

Regardless of type, abortion is a serious medical procedure that can potentially affect you physically and emotionally down the road. Get a better understanding of the different methods and the risks associated with each. 

Know the facts today so you can make a decision with confidence and clarity. You are not alone—our team is here to help you navigate unplanned pregnancy.

What is Medical Abortion?

Medical abortion, also known as a chemical abortion or the abortion pill method, works to end a pregnancy. Two forms of medication are taken in the process: mifepristone and misoprostol. 

Mifepristone prevents the embryo from implanting or growing, while misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.

It’s safer and most effective for a woman to have a medical abortion during the first trimester of her pregnancy. Afterward, your only other abortion option is a surgical abortion.

Medical abortion is a serious decision and if you’re considering this procedure, make sure you understand the risks.

Possible Risks of Medical Abortion

  • Incomplete abortion (which may need to be followed by surgical abortion)

  • An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work

  • Heavy and prolonged bleeding

  • Digestive system discomfort

  • Infection

  • Fever

What is Surgical Abortion?

The two main types of surgical abortion are D&E (Dilation & Evacuation) and D&C (Dilation & Curettage). Each procedure works to dilate the cervix, along with a suction tool that extracts the developing fetus from the uterus. A surgical abortion normally involves anesthesia as well. Before deciding on this type of abortion, it’s vital that you understand the risks.

Possible Risks of Surgical Abortion

As each type of surgical abortion uses similar surgical methods and tools, there are similar risks involved. Some possible risks include…

  • Perforation of the uterus, or when a surgical instrument pokes a hole in the uterus

  • Damage to the cervix

  • Scar tissue on the uterine wall

  • Infection

You Are Not Alone

We know how hard an unplanned pregnancy can be, and we are here to come alongside you through it all. It’s crucial that you verify your pregnancy before making up your mind about abortion. You will need a medical-grade pregnancy test and ultrasound to confirm how far along you are and other vital details.

Schedule an appointment to meet with our medical personnel for a private consultation.