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Learn about the different types of abortion procedures and how they are performed
Be aware of some of the immediate risks
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Should I be concerned about having an abortion?
Abortion is not just a simple medical procedure. For many women, it is a life changing event with great physical, emotional and spiritual consequences. Most women who struggle with past abortions say that they wish they had been told all the facts about abortion.
What can I do about people pressuring me?
Remember, NO person will be required to live with the consequences of this decision as much as you will. If your boyfriend or parents are pressuring you to make a quick decision, explain your needs and try to involve them in counseling to explore your options. You have the right to continue this pregnancy, if that is your choice.
Can I have a baby and still live my life?
You may see this unplanned pregnancy as a major roadblock in your life. Thankfully, there are other routes that can get you back on track. Be encouraged to know that many women in the same situation have found the necessary help and resources to make positive decisions and realize their dreams.
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MANUAL VACUUM ASPIRATION This surgical abortion is done early in the pregnancy up until 7 weeks after the woman's last menstrual period. The cervical muscle is stretched with dilators until the opening is wide enough to allow the abortion instruments to pass into the uterus A hand held syringe is attached to the tubing that is inserted into the uterus and the fetus is suctioned out. |
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DILATION AND CUTTERAGE In this procedure, the doctor opens the cervix with a dilators or laminaria The doctor inserts tubing into the uterus and connects the tubing to a suction machine. The suction pulls the fetus' body apart and out of the uterus . Sometimes the doctor may use a curette to scrape the fetal parts out of the uterus. |
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RU-486 PILL, MIFEPRISTONE This medical abortion is used for women who are within 30-49 days after their last menstrual period. This procedure usually requires three office visits. The RU486 or mifepristone pills are given to the woman who returns two days later for a second medication called misprostol. The combination of these medications causes the uterus to expel the fetus. |
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In most abortions, no serious complications occur.
However, serious complications do happen in about 1 out of every 100 early
abortions; and about 1 in ever 50 late abortions:
Heavy bleeding
Some bleeding after abortion is normal. However, there is a risk of
hemorrhage
, especially if the
uterine artery
is torn. When this happens, a
woman may go into shock and a blood transfusion may be required
Infection
Bacteria may get into the uterus from an incomplete abortion resulting in
infection. A serious infection may lead to persistent fever over several
days and extended hospitalizations.
Incomplete Abortion
Some fetal parts may not be removed by the abortion. Bleeding and
infection may occur. RU486 may fail in up tp 1 out of every 20 cases.
Tearing of Cervix
The
cervix
may be cut or torn by abortion instruments
Scarring of the Uterine Lining
Suction tubing, curettes and other abortion instruments may cause permanent
scarring of the
Uterine lining
Performation of the Uterus
The uterus may be punctured or torn by abortion instruments. The risk of
this complication increases with the length of the pregnancy. If this
occurs, major surgery, including a hysterectomy, may be required.
Damage to internal organs
When the uterus is punctured or torn, there is also a risk that damage will
occur to nearby organs such as the bowel and the bladder.
Death
In extreme cases, other physical complications from abortion including excessive
bleeding, infection, organ damage from a
perforated uterus
and adverse reactions
to anesthesia may lead to death. This complication is very rare and
occurs, on average, in less than 20 cases per year.
