If you’ve recently found out you are pregnant and it was not planned you may be considering abortion as one of your options.
For the sake of your health it’s important to understand what happens during an abortion, as well as understanding what happens to your body after an abortion—including any signs of complications or risks that could require additional medical attention.
What Happens During an Abortion?
There are two different types of abortion procedures, but one or the other may not be appropriate or safe for you depending on key details about your pregnancy and your medical history.
Medical Abortion
Medical abortion, commonly known as the “abortion pill,” is actually a series of pills used to terminate a viable pregnancy.
The first pill is called mifepristone, which blocks your body from producing the hormone that sustains a pregnancy. Without this hormone present the fertilized egg will detach from your uterus and stop growing.
Misoprostol is then taken as the second drug and causes your uterus to contract, forcing the fertilized egg from your body through the vagina.
Surgical Abortion
As the name suggests, surgical abortion is an invasive medical procedure that is conducted by a licensed medical professional.
During a surgical abortion your cervix is dilated and medical devices, including a suction tube, are used to remove the pregnancy and any related tissue from your uterus.
What Happens to Your Body After an Abortion?
There are several different side effects you may experience after an abortion. Depending on your body and the type of abortion procedure the side effects may range from light to severe and include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal cramping
- Vaginal bleeding
- Headache
- Diarrhea
It’s important to also know that there are risks and complications to abortion and you should be aware of the symptoms that could indicate a serious medical condition is developing. Those symptoms include:
- Fever
- Cramps lasting more than 48 hours
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Lasting dizziness or lightheadedness
- Bleeding that is heavy enough that pads need to be changed every hour for more than two hours
- Pain that worsens instead of improving
If you suspect you are suffering from any of these symptoms, or are worried that something doesn’t feel right then seek medical care right away.
Additionally, research has shown that your mental health can be impacted after an abortion. Symptoms of mental health issues after an abortion can include, but are not limited to:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Substance use disorder
- Eating disorders
- Suicidal thoughts or behavior
Seek help from a trusted medical professional if you believe you are suffering from a mental health issue after your abortion.
Get the Answers You Need
At Options Care Center we believe you should have all the facts and details you need to be empowered to make the best decision for your health and future.
If you are considering an abortion and seeking to get answers to all your questions please contact us today to schedule a no-cost and confidential appointment.
