As the shock of an unexpected pregnancy sinks in, you may wonder what to do. Who do you tell? What will your partner or parents think? What if you're leaning toward abortion?

Having an abortion is a deeply personal decision, and you might not know how to discuss your situation. As a result, you may feel alone and unsure whether to talk about it.

At Choices Options for Women, we don't want you to feel isolated in your decision. We're here to talk confidentially. Call or text us at (732) 516-0911.

If you're considering abortion for your unexpected pregnancy, we want you to be fully informed about various procedures, the side effects to expect, and the potential physical and emotional risks. Set up an appointment. We can verify your pregnancy and give you the information you need.

How Far Along You Are Often Determines the Type of Abortion

The number of weeks and days you've been pregnant usually determines whether you qualify for a medical or surgical procedure.

A medical abortion is also known as the abortion pill method. The FDA approves the drugs used in a medical abortion through 10 weeks of pregnancy only. The first drug, mifepristone, is highly regulated. Only certified providers can prescribe it, and they don't recommend ordering it through the mail.

Abortion providers often choose surgical procedures later in a pregnancy. You can have a vacuum (suction) aspiration within the first 13 weeks, but later pregnancies require surgical instruments. To know the exact number of weeks and days you've been pregnant, you need an ultrasound.


Both Have Side Effects You Should Be Aware Of

All abortions involve vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping. With a medical abortion, the second drug, misoprostol, causes bleeding and contractions to expel the pregnancy and tissue from the body. Some women experience heavy bleeding and severe contractions.

With this abortion method, you might also experience side effects like nausea and vomiting, a fever and chills, diarrhea, and a headache.

Since you take the drugs in the privacy of your home, without direct medical supervision, you need to be aware of how much bleeding is too much and when to seek emergency care.

A surgical abortion often requires local or general anesthesia, which can cause dizziness or nausea. Other side effects include bleeding and cramping.


There Are Potential Physical Risks

Some of the physical risks with the abortion pill (medical abortion) method include the following:

  • An incomplete abortion, which is when the body doesn't release all of the pregnancy tissue (this can require an additional procedure)
  • An ongoing pregnancy if the drugs don't work
  • Heavy and prolonged bleeding
  • Infection

Even with medical oversight, surgical procedures can cause physical complications. The following are some risks to be aware of:

  • Perforation of the uterus with a surgical instrument
  • Damage to the cervix
  • Scar tissue on the uterine wall
  • Infection

Abortion Can Affect Your Mental Health

Although many women express relief when the abortion is over, some have feelings of guilt, sadness, or anxiety over their decision.

According to one study, women who had abortions had a higher risk of mental health problems than women who had not had an abortion. Before making a decision, it's crucial to consider factors like your own mental health history and address any concerns with a healthcare provider.


Let Choices Options for Women Confirm Your Pregnancy First

Did you know it's possible to get a positive pregnancy test but no longer be pregnant? Many women are unaware of the possibility of miscarriages in early pregnancy.

Experts estimate that as many as 20% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage, and the number may actually be higher. Even though you may no longer be pregnant, you could still get a positive test result days or weeks after a pregnancy.

At Choices, we provide free and confidential services to verify if you're actually pregnant or if you've miscarried. We'll start with a pregnancy test. If your test is still positive, we'll provide a free limited obstetrical ultrasound.

If the ultrasound detects a fetal heartbeat, your pregnancy is developing. You will also learn how far along you are and if your pregnancy is safely located in your uterus. This information will help you determine your options, and we'll be sure to answer any questions you have.

Contact Choices Options for Women to schedule an appointment. Call 732-516-0911. We're here for you.

Choices Options for Women does not perform or refer for abortion.

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