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Your decision to have an abortion or continue a pregnancy is not
a simple or easy one. It is important to take the time you need to make the
choice that is best for you. If you choose to end your pregnancy, and it has
been 9 weeks or less since your last period, you may be able to have a medical
abortion.
Medical Abortion
A
medical abortion uses two medicines to end a pregnancy. The first one (either
mifepristone or methotrexate) weakens the attachment of the pregnancy to the
uterus. A second medication (misoprostol) put into the vagina the same day or
one or two days later, makes the uterus cramp and causes bleeding to expel the
pregnancy. With a medical abortion, women often have stronger cramping and
heavier bleeding than with a period. Bleeding and spotting usually last about
9-16 days. A return visit is needed to ensure the abortion is complete.
Complications are rare. A small number of women will need a vacuum aspiration
because of heavy bleeding or because the medical abortion does not end the
pregnancy. Very rarely a blood transfusion is needed because of excessive
bleeding.
Surgical Abortion
The
cervix (opening to the uterus) is stretched open slightly. The pregnancy is then
removed through a small tube using suction. Vacuum aspiration is usually done in
a medical office or clinic and the procedure takes 5 to 10 minutes. During the
procedure, and for a short time afterward, women may have strong cramping.
Spotting or bleeding like a period may last for a few days or weeks.
Complications are rare, but include infection, excessive bleeding, a tear in the
cervix or uterus, incomplete abortion, or a continuing pregnancy.
| Medical
Abortion |
Surgical
Abortion |
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High success rate (about 98%) |
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High success rate (about 99%) |
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Usually avoids surgical procedure |
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Instruments inserted into the uterus |
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Requires at least two visits |
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Can be done in one visit |
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Abortion usually occurs within 4 hours of second medication |
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Procedure is completed in 5-10 minutes |
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May be used early in pregnancy |
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May be used early in pregnancy |
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Oral pain medication can be used |
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Anesthesia/Sedation can be used |
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Some of the process may happen at home |
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Procedure is done in a medical office or clinic |
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Medications cause a process similar to a miscarriage |
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Health care provider performs the procedure |
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