Despite what you’ve heard, abortion is a major medical decision with the potential for physical and emotional complications. You owe it to yourself to learn about the various procedures, side effects, and possible risks. Although we do not perform or refer for abortion, we do provide accurate, factual information. Set up an appointment to learn more.
The Abortion Pill
The abortion pill method is a medical or medication abortion because it uses two drugs to terminate a pregnancy. The first drug, mifepristone, is highly regulated by the FDA. Only certified providers can prescribe it.
Mifepristone blocks a much-needed pregnancy hormone called progesterone. The second drug, misoprostol, causes cramping and bleeding to expel the pregnancy from the body through the vagina.
The FDA has approved the use of these drugs through 10 weeks of pregnancy only (70 days past the first day of your last period). They do not recommend taking it after ten weeks. Knowing the precise date you got pregnant is essential.
Surgical Abortion
Once again, how far along you are in your pregnancy determines the surgical procedure. Abortion providers usually use vacuum or suction aspiration for early pregnancies (12 weeks or under).
Surgical tools such as a curette (a sharp scraping tool) or forceps are added the further along you are. The provider will most likely need to dilate (open) your cervix (the opening to the uterus) to perform the procedure. You should also have local or general anesthesia.
Be Aware of Some Risks
Both medication and surgical abortions have risks. Here’s a list of some to watch out for:
- An incomplete abortion
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- A puncture with a surgical instrument through your uterus
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Infection
Before Your Abortion
Experts recommend the following before scheduling an abortion:
- Meet with your healthcare provider to review your medical history and overall health
- Confirm your pregnancy with a pregnancy test and ultrasound
- Determine whether the pregnancy is in the correct location
- Verify the number of weeks you’ve been pregnant
- Review your medications
- Confirm you can make follow-up visits or have access to emergency care
Visit Us For More Information
Learn about current Ohio abortion laws. We do not perform or refer for abortion, but we can review your situation and discuss all of your options, including abortion. Schedule an appointment to talk confidentially with our Client Consultant.
The PCC Difference
Since 1990, the Pregnancy Center of Coshocton has been serving the women and families facing unplanned pregnancies in our community. We're a safe, non-judgmental place to discuss your situation in private. We're here for you.
