Abortion
What is a medical abortion?
A medical abortion, also called a nonsurgical abortion, uses the medications mifepristone and misoprostol to terminate a pregnancy that’s within the first seven weeks of the first trimester, as determined by ultrasound.
These FDA-approved medications, which are collectively known as the “abortion pill,” are a safe and effective way to end a pregnancy in the comfort of your own home, either with a support person or by yourself.
How effective are medical abortions?
Medical abortions are highly effective, working 98% of the time for women who are up to seven weeks pregnant. This type of abortion is significantly less effective for women who are in their eighth or ninth week of pregnancy, however.
If you’re past the seventh week of pregnancy, a surgical abortion is a safer and more effective option.
What is a first-trimester surgical abortion?
If you’re still in your first trimester, or up to 12 weeks pregnant, surgical abortion is a short procedure that involves vacuum aspiration or suction curettage, also known as a D&C. This operation is performed with anesthesia to help ensure comfort.
A surgical abortion can be performed any time during the first trimester, including up to the seventh week of pregnancy, when a medical abortion is still a safe and effective option. Surgical abortion is the best option for women who are 8-12 weeks pregnant, as determined by ultrasound.
How effective are surgical abortions?
Surgical abortion is effective 99% of the time, meaning fewer than one in 100 women requires a repeat procedure. At Pure OBGYN, you can feel secure in knowing you’re under direct medical supervision throughout the entire process.
How do I know which procedure is right for me?
Once you’ve decided to terminate a first-trimester pregnancy, choosing the procedure that’s best for you depends on your personal situation.
If you’re still in the early stages of the first trimester, a medical abortion allows you to experience the process at home, either with a support person or on your own. If you’d rather go through the procedure with doctors, nurses, and trained support staff by your side, however, you should choose a surgical abortion.
If you’re already 8-12 weeks pregnant, you don’t really have much of a choice — a surgical abortion is generally the safest and the most effective way to end a late first-trimester pregnancy.
No matter what your situation, the team at Pure OBGYN will guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. To learn more, call your nearest office or book an appointment online today.
