What Are the Different Types of Abortion? 

Facing an unexpected pregnancy and considering abortion? It’s important to know that there are two types of abortion: medical (also known as the “abortion pill”) or surgical—and your pregnancy’s gestational age and your medical conditions/situation are the main factors that determine which type of abortion you might be eligible for.

At Anderson Pregnancy Care, we understand there is a lot of misinformation floating around regarding abortion, which is why we’ve compiled the essentials you need to know. Read on to be informed. (Looking for a safe, non-judgmental space to learn more? We’re here; all appointments and services are free and confidential.)

Medical Abortion—Using Powerful Drugs to End Your Pregnancy 

During a medical abortion, you will take two powerful drugs at home without the oversight of a physician.

Mifepristone is the first drug. It blocks progesterone, which starts the abortion process. Without this critical hormone, your uterine lining will loosen and shed, and your embryo or fetus will eventually detach and end.

Misoprostol is the second drug. It causes your uterus to contract and expel your embryo or fetus out through your vagina.

After taking these drugs, you will experience vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping. Some women have reported that the pain was unexpectedly severe. You might also witness the expelled embryo or fetus passing, which can be distressing for some women.

The abortion drugs are only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is 10 weeks gestation or under—and if you take these drugs when your pregnancy is further along, you’re at a greater risk of experiencing complications, like incomplete abortion (which is when parts of the terminated pregnancy remain in the uterus). 

Surgical Abortion—Terminating Your Pregnancy in a Clinic

Surgical abortion is typically done later in pregnancy in a clinical setting. The process involves dilating the cervix so that medical instruments can enter the uterus to remove the pregnancy. 

Earlier in pregnancy, strong suction and scraping tools are used. Later in pregnancy, other instruments like forceps are used to remove larger parts of your embryo or fetus.

Uterine perforation is one of the primary risks of surgical abortion. This is when one of the abortion instruments pokes a hole in your uterus, and it can lead to painful menstrual periods or future infertility. 

How Can I Protect My Health?

Before seeking an abortion, it’s critical to get an ultrasound. This scan can help reveal your pregnancy’s gestational age (how far along your pregnancy is), location (making sure it’s in the uterus and not ectopic), and viability (whether your pregnancy has signs of life, like a heartbeat)—which are all vital details you need to know to determine if abortion is an option for your situation.

At Anderson Pregnancy Care, we understand what you’re going through—but you’re not alone in this. We’re here for you. 

Contact us today to schedule your free pregnancy confirmation appointment, which includes a pregnancy test and follow-up ultrasound. In a safe, welcoming environment, you can get the clarity you need to move forward. 

Anderson Pregnancy Care does not provide or refer for abortions. 

*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.