If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy, you are not alone. In fact, up to 50% of pregnancies in the US are unplanned. It’s important that you don’t feel alone, isolated, or without options.
You can have an abortion as early as 4 weeks. If you’re interested in this option, read below to learn more about the different possible procedures and the steps you should take to protect your health.
What is a Medical Abortion?
A medical (also called chemical) abortion is likely the procedure you would qualify for if you want it done as early as possible. Medical abortions can be conducted up to 10 weeks (70 days) gestation.
The first of the regimen of prescription drugs is mifepristone. It will block an essential hormone, progesterone, from the placenta and fetus, so the pregnancy stops growing.
The second pill, misoprostol, is taken 24-48 hours later, softens the cervix, and contracts the uterus in order to expel the pregnancy tissue. You can expect cramping and bleeding for several hours to a few days until your body has expelled any remaining tissue.
What Are the Risks of a Medical Abortion?
According to the Mayo Clinic, here are a list of potential risks that can follow a medical abortion procedure:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
As you look at your options, it’s important to know any potential risks that come with a medical procedure.
Schedule an Ultrasound
Before an abortion, a health screening such as an ultrasound is highly recommended. An ultrasound scan will definitively confirm your pregnanc and estimate how far along you are, which will be essential to know before you are able to get a medication abortion.
At Options Clinic, we offer no-cost ultrasounds where our staff can offer medically accurate information to your questions and share educational resources as you learn more about your options. Contact us today!
Options Clinic does not perform or refer for abortion.