Abortion

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If you’re considering abortion, it’s essential to understand how the procedures work and the risks involved.

While we don’t perform or refer for abortions, at Crossroads Care Clinic, we’re here to provide the information you need to make an informed decision.

Medical Abortion

Medical abortion, often referred to as the “abortion pill,” involves two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for pregnancy. Without progesterone, your uterine lining will loosen, and your pregnancy will eventually detach. Misoprostol is taken next, and it causes your uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy out through your vagina.

Risks of Medical Abortion

Risks of a medical abortion include:

• Heavy Bleeding: In some cases, bleeding may be excessive and require medical intervention.
• Incomplete Abortion and infection: This is when parts of the terminated pregnancy remain in your uterus, and it can lead to a potentially life-threatening infection.

Surgical Abortion

Surgical abortion is performed in a clinical setting. The most common methods include suction aspiration and dilation and evacuation (D&E), depending on how far along your pregnancy is. Both methods involve dilating the cervix so that surgical instruments can enter the uterus to scrape or suction the pregnancy (later in pregnancy, forceps will be used to remove larger parts of the pregnancy).

Risks of Surgical Abortion

Risks of surgical abortion include:

• Uterine Damage: Rarely, the surgical instruments can poke a hole in your uterus leading to uterine damage.
• Infection: Bacteria can be introduced during the procedure, leading to infection.
• Scarring: Scar tissue may develop in the uterus, which could affect your future fertility or cause painful periods.

Mental Health Implications

Abortion can have emotional and mental health effects. Research indicates that women with pre-existing mental health conditions or those who feel pressured into an abortion may be at higher risk for depression, anxiety, or regret following the procedure. It’s important to consider your emotional well-being as part of your decision; talking to someone you trust can help.

We’re Here to Help

At Crossroads Care Clinic, we understand that deciding how to move forward with a pregnancy is deeply personal. We’re here to provide accurate information, free ultrasounds, and compassionate support as you explore your options.

Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential appointment. You don’t have to face this alone. We’re here for you.