If you’re unexpectedly pregnant and considering abortion, it’s important to have clear, medically accurate information before making a decision. Many people find themselves sorting through opinions or conflicting messages during this time, which can make it challenging to navigate the decision-making process.
At Greater Hope Care Center, our role is to help you understand the facts related to abortion procedures, possible side effects, and potential risks.
We offer free, confidential appointments where clients can ask questions, learn at their own pace, and receive information without feeling pressured to choose one option over another. You don’t need to have your mind made up before coming in. Our team is here to help you feel informed, not rushed.
Abortion Methods
Abortion ends a pregnancy either through drugs or a surgical procedure. The option used depends on how far along the pregnancy is and your personal health history.
Understanding the differences can help you weigh your options more carefully.
Medical Abortion (Abortion Pill)
Medical abortion typically involves two drugs. The first, mifepristone, works by blocking progesterone, a hormone needed to sustain pregnancy. The second, misoprostol, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.
This method is FDA-approved for use up to 10 weeks of gestation.
Abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding, which can be intense, will occur as the pregnancy tissue is expelled.
Possible side effects include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Fever
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Headache
Possible risks include:
- Heavy or prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Incomplete abortion (requiring follow-up care)
- Ongoing pregnancy if the drugs don’t work
Surgical abortion is performed in a clinical setting using suction and/or surgical instruments. The specific technique used depends on how far along you are.
After the procedure, cramping and light bleeding or spotting may occur for several days.
Possible risks include:
- Cervical damage
- Uterine perforation (when an instrument punctures the uterine wall)
- Infection
- Scar tissue that may affect future fertility (Asherman’s syndrome)
- Incomplete abortion
Why Pregnancy Confirmation Is Important
Before making any pregnancy-related decision, confirming key details about the pregnancy matters. Gestational age, pregnancy location, and viability all play a role in both safety and available options.
Greater Hope Care Center offers no-cost ultrasound referrals to help clarify this information.
Private, Respectful Conversations
Your privacy is taken seriously. Appointments are confidential, and information is shared in a way that respects your situation and autonomy. You’ll have time to ask questions and receive the answers you need to make educated decisions.
Request a free, confidential appointment today or schedule one directly by calling (570) 772-0337.
Greater Hope Care Center does not provide or refer for abortions.
