Pregnancy Options

Abortion

If you are considering abortion for your pregnancy, knowing how far along you are will help you understand which options are available. Below is a plain-language overview of the most common types and the risks associated with each.

Types of Abortion

Medical Abortion

Medical abortion has several names: the abortion pill, medication abortion, and RU486. It is the procedure intended to end early pregnancies and is available in Massachusetts through the first 10 weeks of pregnancy.

Medical abortion uses two drugs to end the pregnancy. Mifepristone prevents the body from absorbing progesterone, a hormone needed for the pregnancy to grow. Misoprostol then causes cramping and contractions to expel the pregnancy tissue.

Surgical Abortion

There are several types of surgical abortion, available at varying points during pregnancy. Most use the same basic process: dilating the cervix and emptying the uterus using scraping and suction techniques.

In Massachusetts, surgical abortion is legal for pregnancies under 24 weeks gestational age. After 10 weeks, surgical abortion is the only available option.

Possible Risks

Any medication or medical procedure carries some risk, and abortion is no exception. Being fully informed about the possible risks helps you make a decision that is right for you.

Medical Abortion Risks

According to Mayo Clinic, possible risks of medical abortion include:

• Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
• An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure does not work
• Heavy and prolonged bleeding
• Infection
• Fever
• Digestive system discomfort

Surgical Abortion Risks

If you experience any of the following after a surgical abortion, seek immediate medical care:

• Passing blood clots larger than a lemon for more than two hours
• Bleeding heavy enough that you have to change your pad twice in one hour for two hours straight
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• Fever
• Pain or cramping that gets worse instead of better, especially after 48 hours
• Pregnancy symptoms that persist after one week

Before Your Abortion

Before scheduling an abortion, knowing how far along you are is essential. An ultrasound will let you know the gestational age and alert you to possible complications such as an ectopic pregnancy.

We offer on-site referrals for free ultrasounds. Contact us to schedule yours.