Abortion is a permanent, life-changing decision that terminates a pregnancy, and it’s a woman’s right to be as informed as possible before making this choice. That’s why we believe in talking about abortion.
With so much information online and in the media about abortion, it can be challenging to know where to begin. This is why we’ve compiled the essentials of what you need to know about abortion.
How Does Abortion Work?
There are two main types of abortion: medical and surgical.
Medical Abortion
A medical abortion (also known as the “abortion pill”) involves taking a combination of two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol, which terminate the pregnancy and cause the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through the vagina.
The main risks of taking abortion drugs include losing too much blood, infection, and an incomplete abortion (which requires emergency treatment).
Surgical Abortion
A surgical abortion involves dilating the cervix so that a medical instrument can enter the uterus and remove the pregnancy.
The main risks of this procedure include cervical damage, uterine perforation, and infection (which could become life-threatening).
How Will I Mentally Handle an Abortion?
Every woman will respond differently to an abortion. Some women feel immediate relief afterward. Other women, however, “experience sadness, grief, and feelings of loss following termination of a pregnancy, and some experience clinically significant disorders, including depression and anxiety,” according to a report by the American Psychological Association’s (APA) Task Force on Mental Health and Abortion (TFMHA).
What Should I Do Next?
If you’re pregnant and thinking about your next steps, it’s essential to get an ultrasound. This harmless scan can reveal key details that will help ensure your safety and determine what choices are available to you.
We’re Here for You
At Choose Hope Women’s Center, we know that facing an unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming. But you’re not alone. We’re here for you with free pregnancy resources, including ultrasounds, community referrals, educational programs, and more. Contact us today to schedule a confidential appointment in a caring, non-judgmental environment. You are much stronger than you think.