What Is An Abortion?

An abortion is a medical procedure used to end a pregnancy.

There are two main types of abortion, depending on how far along a pregnancy is. One involves prescribed medication taken early in pregnancy. The other involves a medical procedure performed later in pregnancy using suction or surgical techniques.

Medication abortion uses two drugs taken at different times to end an early pregnancy. Procedural abortions use methods such as vacuum aspiration or dilation and evacuation.

How Does Abortion Occur?

Abortion happens when a pregnancy is ended using medication or a medical procedure.

Medication abortion involves taking two prescribed drugs. The first blocks progesterone, a hormone needed to continue a pregnancy. The second causes the uterus to contract and pass the pregnancy tissue. This method is typically used early in pregnancy.

Procedural abortion involves opening the cervix and using suction or medical instruments, such as vacuum aspiration or dilation and evacuation, to remove the pregnancy. These procedures are performed with pain management that may include local or general anesthesia.

Medical Abortion v. Surgical Abortion?

A medication abortion ends a pregnancy using prescribed drugs. A medication abortion ends a pregnancy through a medical procedure performed in a clinic.

Medication abortion involves taking two medications, mifepristone and misoprostol, and is typically used early in pregnancy.

Procedural abortion involves opening the cervix and using suction or medical instruments, such as vacuum aspiration or dilation and evacuation, to remove the pregnancy.

Is Abortion Legal in Texas?

Abortion is not legal in Texas, except in very limited medical circumstances. Many people look to other states to learn what laws apply there, which can feel confusing and overwhelming.

Pregnancy Support Center of Perryton offers free pregnancy testing and a private, confidential space to ask questions and learn factual information about abortion. Appointments are available for those who want time to talk and understand next steps.

Does Abortion Hurt?

Pain levels during abortion vary depending on the type of procedure, how far along the pregnancy is, and individual pain tolerance.

With medication abortion, cramping and bleeding are common as the uterus contracts to pass the pregnancy. Some describe this as similar to a heavy or intense menstrual period. With procedural abortion, pain management such as local or general anesthesia is typically used during the procedure, though cramping or discomfort may occur afterward.

How Long Do You Bleed After An Abortion?

Bleeding after an abortion varies from person to person and can depend on the type of abortion and how far along the pregnancy was. Bleeding often lasts one to two weeks, with lighter spotting sometimes continuing longer.

After a medication abortion, heavier bleeding and cramping are common in the first few days as the pregnancy passes. This usually lessens over time, though light spotting may continue for several weeks.

After a procedural abortion, bleeding is often lighter and shorter, with many people experiencing spotting for about one to two weeks.

How Much Does An Abortion Cost?

The cost of an abortion can vary based on the type of abortion, how far along the pregnancy is, and whether insurance is involved.

Some people may pay a lower out-of-pocket cost, while others may face higher expenses depending on the procedure and timing.

What's In The Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill uses two medications taken at different times: mifepristone followed by misoprostol.

Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone needed to continue a pregnancy, which causes the pregnancy to stop developing.

Misoprostol is taken later to cause the uterus to contract and pass the pregnancy tissue.

Medication abortion is typically used early in pregnancy and is provided through medical services that include follow-up care to address bleeding, cramping, and to confirm completion.

How Soon After An Abortion Can You Get Pregnant?

Fertility can return quickly after an abortion, sometimes within a few weeks, though timing varies from person to person.

Ovulation may occur before a first menstrual period, often within several weeks, but for some it may take longer for cycles to return.

Because each body is different, pregnancy can be possible soon after an abortion, or it may take more time.

What Are The Risks Of Abortion?

Any medical procedure can carry risks. These vary based on the type of abortion, how far along the pregnancy is, and individual health factors.

Medication abortion (abortion pill, typically early in pregnancy):
Common effects can include cramping, bleeding, nausea, or vomiting. Less common risks include ongoing pregnancy, heavier bleeding, infection, or an undiagnosed ectopic pregnancy.

Procedural abortion (such as aspiration or dilation and evacuation):
Common effects may include cramping and light bleeding. Rare risks can include infection, injury to the cervix or uterus, or scarring, which may affect fertility in uncommon cases.

Other considerations:
Emotional responses vary and may include relief, sadness, or mixed feelings. Serious complications, such as severe infection or death, are very rare. Future fertility is usually not affected unless uncommon complications occur.

A healthcare provider is the best source for discussing personal medical risks and follow-up care.