Considering Abortion?
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming, and you may be wondering where to find accurate information about abortion. Before you decide, it’s essential to gather reliable information to make a choice that protects your health and future.
Ohana Health does not provide or refer for abortions, but we do provide no-cost, confidential services, including thorough options information. Our trained client advocates will walk with you and answer your questions in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.
Understanding Abortion Procedures
Abortion ends a pregnancy through either a medical abortion (also called the abortion pill) or a surgical procedure. Each has side effects and potential risks.
Medical Abortion (Abortion Pill)
Medical abortion, often called the abortion pill, is a two-step process that is FDA-approved through the first ten weeks of pregnancy. The first drug, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone, which is necessary to maintain a pregnancy. Without progesterone, the uterine lining begins to break down. The second drug, misoprostol, is taken later to cause the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue.
This method leads to bleeding and cramping as the drugs work to end and expel the pregnancy. Other side effects may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
Possible risks to be aware of include:
- Digestive symptoms
- Fever
- Heavy, prolonged bleeding
- Incomplete abortion (when some pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus, potentially requiring surgical treatment)
- Infection
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion is performed in a clinic or hospital setting and may involve different techniques depending on how far along the pregnancy is. Early procedures often use suction aspiration to remove the pregnancy tissue, while later procedures may require dilation and curettage (D&C) or dilation and evacuation (D&E).
After a surgical abortion, it is normal to experience cramping and light bleeding or spotting for several days. Risks, while not common, can include:
- Perforation of the uterus (if a surgical tool pokes a hole)
- Injury to the cervix
- Scar tissue formation in the uterus (which may impact fertility or cause painful periods)
- Infections
Why Pregnancy Confirmation Matters
Before pursuing an abortion, it is critical to confirm the following details for your health and safety:
- Gestational age: How far along you are, which determines which abortion procedures might be possible.
- Viability: Whether the pregnancy is progressing and if there is a detectable heartbeat.
- Location: To rule out an ectopic pregnancy, which requires immediate medical care and cannot be treated with an abortion pill.
Our free limited ultrasound, offered after a positive test at Ohana Health or with proof of pregnancy from your provider, can verify these details.
We’re Here to Provide Clarity
Your decision is yours alone. Our client advocates and registered nurses will provide a safe place to talk, accurate medical information, and more.
Schedule your no-cost, confidential appointment today to receive a consultation about all your options.
Ohana Health does not provide or refer for abortions.