3 Things Needed Before Abortion

September 24, 2024

Abortion is a serious medical procedure, and like any medical intervention, it’s critical to learn all you can before making this choice to protect your health.

This article will highlight the three things that are needed before seeking an abortion. However, if you’re looking for a safe space to talk and learn more, contact First Choice Pregnancy Services today to schedule a free, confidential appointment.

1. Learn All You Can About How Abortion Works and the Risks Involved

There are two main types of abortion: medical (also known as the “abortion pill”) and surgical.

Surgical Abortion

Surgical abortion is performed in a clinic or hospital and involves dilating the cervix so that medical instruments—like strong suction, scraping tools, and forceps—can enter the uterus to terminate and remove the pregnancy.

The risks of surgical abortion include:

• Perforation of the uterus (which happens when the medical instruments poke a hole in your uterus)
• Uterine scarring
• Cervical damage
• Infection

Medical Abortion (The Abortion Pill)

Medical abortion involves taking two powerful drugs at home. These drugs work together in unison to terminate the pregnancy and then expel it from the uterus through the vagina.

After taking the drugs, you will experience abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding. Some women have reported that the pain was unexpectedly severe.

There are also risks to consider:

• Incomplete abortion (which is when parts of the terminated pregnancy remain in your uterus)
• Heavy and prolonged bleeding
• Infection
• Fever
• Digestive system discomfort

2. Know About Your Other Options

It’s important to know that abortion isn’t your only pregnancy option. Your other choices include parenting and adoption.

When thinking through your options, it can help to ask yourself the following questions:

• What questions do I have about each option?
• What concerns me most when I think about each option?
• If my circumstances weren’t a factor, what option would I consider most and why?

Only you can decide what option is right for you. The more you learn about your pregnancy choices, the more you will be empowered to make an informed decision.

3. Get an Ultrasound

Before you make any pregnancy decision, it’s essential to get an ultrasound. This simple scan protects your health by telling you the key pregnancy details you need to know.

For example, an ultrasound will reveal your pregnancy’s gestational age, which is essential information if you’re considering a medical abortion (these drugs are only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is 10 weeks gestation or under).

We’re Here for You

We understand that navigating your pregnancy options can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone in this—-we’re here for you.

We offer a Pre-Abortion Screening, which provides free pregnancy testing, an ultrasound, and a safe, confidential space to ask questions and learn more.

Contact us today to schedule your free appointment.

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