Know the Facts Before You Decide
An unexpected pregnancy can bring a lot of questions, especially when emotions, opinions, and information are coming at you from every direction. Before making any decisions, it is important to understand how abortion works, what the process involves, and what risks and considerations may come with it.
The Pregnancy Center of Coshocton does not perform or refer for abortions. We do provide a confidential, no-cost space where you can ask questions, receive early pregnancy services, and take time to process your options without pressure.
Understanding the Two Types of Abortion
There are two primary types of abortion: medical (the abortion pill) and surgical. The procedure, timeline, and physical effects differ depending on the type and the stage of the pregnancy.
Medical Abortion
A medical abortion involves two drugs taken separately to terminate a pregnancy and is FDA-approved through 10 weeks of gestation.
The first drug, mifepristone, blocks progesterone, a hormone needed to sustain the pregnancy. Without enough progesterone, the uterine lining will thin and break down, and the fetus or embryo can no longer remain attached or grow. This drug will terminate the pregnancy.
The second drug, misoprostol, is taken 24 to 48 hours later and causes the uterus to contract, similar to labor. The contractions cause abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding to expel the embryo or fetus, along with related tissue, like the placenta, from the uterus.
The process often takes place at home and involves vaginal bleeding, abdominal cramping, and pain that may last several hours or longer.
Other possible side effects may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever or chills
- Headache
- Fatigue
Risks can include:
- Heavy or prolonged bleeding
- Incomplete abortion requiring additional medical care
- Infection
- Ongoing pregnancy
- Digestive complications
Follow-up care is important after a medical abortion to monitor for possible complications.
Surgical Abortion
Unlike a medical abortion, a surgical abortion takes place in a clinic or a hospital setting.
The procedure starts by first dilating the cervix (the opening of the uterus), and then an abortion provider uses suction and surgical instruments to manually terminate and remove the pregnancy. The specific surgical abortion method used is determined by the gestational age.
Local anesthesia or sedation is typically used.
As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications to be aware of.
Possible risks may include:
- Injury to the cervix
- Perforation of the uterus
- Infection
- Scar tissue formation inside the uterus
- Heavy bleeding
Abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding afterward are common side effects, and recovery experiences can vary from person to person.
Why an Ultrasound Matters
Before making any pregnancy decisions, an ultrasound can provide important medical information. Following a positive pregnancy test, a limited obstetrical ultrasound can provide additional information, including:
- Estimated gestational age
- Whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus
- Whether cardiac activity is present
These details may affect what options are available and help identify certain medical concerns that may require follow-up care.
At the Pregnancy Center of Coshocton, limited obstetrical ultrasounds are performed by trained sonographers under medical supervision. If you have received a positive pregnancy test, contact us to learn whether you may qualify.
We’re Here to Help
If you have questions or are not sure where to start, our team is here. Your visit and everything you share with us stays completely confidential, and your information is never shared with outside parties.
We’re here to listen. Schedule a confidential visit today.
The Pregnancy Center of Coshocton does not perform or refer for abortions.