Beginning in 1973, abortion became legal across the United States. During that time, abortion providers have used various drugs, vacuums, sharp scraping instruments, and even forceps to aid in terminating a pregnancy. As a result, heavy bleeding, infection, fever, and incomplete abortion are all potential risks of the procedures.
Abortion In Texas
Since the overturn of Roe v Wade, most abortions are illegal in Texas. Women in Texas are increasingly leaving the state to obtain abortion services, or are turning to illegal mail-order abortion pills.
The most common abortion procedure used before 10 weeks gestation (figured from the first day of the last menstrual period) is the abortion pill (medical abortion). The FDA has approved the use of the abortion pill for up to 70 days.
What Is The Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill method uses two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks the uterus from absorbing progesterone, a necessary hormone for pregnancy. The lack of progesterone terminates the pregnancy.
Misoprostol is taken within 24-48 hours, causing uterine cramping to expel the pregnancy tissue.
The Physical Risks Of The Abortion Pill
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), part of ending a pregnancy includes cramping and bleeding.
You also risk potentially life-threatening bleeding, infections, or other problems. The Mayo Clinic states another possible complication is incomplete abortion.
Other common side effects of the abortion pill include nausea, weakness, fever/chills, vomiting, headache, diarrhea, and dizziness in the first day or two after taking the two medicines.
Before Any Abortion
There are a few necessary steps to take before ordering the abortion pill, or even having a surgical abortion. First, you will want to confirm your pregnancy with a medical-grade pregnancy test. You should confirm even a positive at-home pregnancy test with a medical-grade test. At Cleburne Pregnancy Center, our tests are free and confidential.
A free and confidential ultrasound should follow a positive test result. Our limited ultrasound can detect if your pregnancy is viable (growing) or if you have miscarried.
Ultrasound also closely dates your pregnancy and reveals if it’s in the correct location. Though the risk is low (approximately 1 out of 100) an ectopic pregnancy, one that develops within the fallopian tube rather than in the uterus, could be a potentially life-threatening situation.
Your health is important. Cleburne Pregnancy Center also offers free testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections. Proceeding with an abortion plan before knowing you are clear of STI’s could place you at increased risk for complications following an abortion. Our knowledgeable medical team is here to provide confidential services and educate you on your options.
Finally, don’t allow yourself to be pressured. You have time to thoughtfully consider your plan. And you don’t have to go it alone. Our caring, non-judgmental teammates are eager to listen to your concerns and answer your questions. You owe it to yourself to be well informed and to be at peace with your ultimate decision. It’s your health and your future!