Every person responds differently to medical procedures. For some, the simple thought of taking drugs or having a doctor perform surgery causes painful anxiety. Other people tolerate physical pain on various levels.
Whether or not abortion will be painful for you is determined by several different factors, including the following:
- How far along you are in your pregnancy
- The type of abortion procedure
- Physical complications
- Your tolerance to pain
How Far Along Are You in Your Pregnancy?
Knowing how far along you are is vital to protecting your health and safety when considering abortion. Procedures are determined based on the number of weeks of pregnancy.
Are You Less Than 10 Weeks Pregnant?
The FDA has approved using the abortion pill method through ten weeks gestation (70 days or less since the first day of a patient’s last menstrual period). A limited obstetrical ultrasound is the best way to determine how long you have been pregnant.
At Willowbrook Women’s Center, we can confirm your pregnancy with a pregnancy test and an ultrasound exam at no cost to you. Our tests are completely confidential, so schedule yours today.
Possible Complications With the Abortion Pill Method:
According to the Mayo Clinic, these are the potential complications of taking the abortion pill:
- Heavy bleeding
- Abdominal cramping
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever and chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- An incomplete abortion
They also list several reasons why the abortion pill may not be a good option for you.
Possible Complications With a Surgical Abortion
A surgical procedure is more invasive and is often performed later than ten weeks of pregnancy. The abortion provider uses a suction device and a sharp spoon-shaped scraping tool. If necessary, they may also use forceps to remove larger pieces.
With a surgical abortion, you run the risk of the following complications:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Damage to the cervix
- Infection
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fever
- Cramps lasting longer than 48 hours
Surgical abortions often use a local anesthetic to numb the area beforehand.
How Tolerant Are You To Pain?
Only you know if abortion and its side effects and potential complications will be painful for you. We recommend a thorough consultation with your healthcare provider before scheduling an abortion.
You need to know if you are allergic to any of the drugs used, the location of your pregnancy, and how to prepare in case of an emergency. We can provide more information about each procedure, the side effects, and potential risks.
How Can Willowbrook Help Me?
Because abortion is currently banned in Missouri, you must travel out of state. Before taking the trip and spending the money to travel, speak with us about your concerns. Once we’ve confirmed your pregnancy with a pre-abortion screening, we can review your situation and options.
Having an abortion is a significant medical decision. Get all the information you can before deciding so you are fully prepared. We’re here to help you with no-cost pregnancy services, confidential assistance, and our no-judgment guarantee.
