What Are the Types of Abortions and What Can Clients Expect?

Medical Abortions

Surgical Abortions

Medical or chemical abortions sound so simple. They tell clients that it's just like taking a couple of aspirin. But women need to know the truth about what will happen to them if they are considering this type of abortion. They will be taking two drugs. The first drug, mifepristone, cuts off oxygen and nutrients to the baby, starving it to death. The second drug, misoprostol, causes contractions, expelling the baby, usually into the toilet.

Access dispenses medication for these types of abortions up to the 10th week of pregnancy although it is less effective in the ninth or tenth week. If these drugs are not effective, a subsequent surgical abortion will be required. They advise that clients must be in good health and have immediate, reliable transportation in the event of a medical emergency. Suddenly, it doesn't sound so safe.

Access says that bleeding, cramping, and passing orange-size clots is all a normal part of the process. Heavier-than-normal bleeding usually lasts for nine to 16 days. If women experience severe bleeding, however, they should contact their doctor immediately or head into the nearest emergency room. And what happens if all of the baby is not expelled? A woman can suffer from severe hemorrhage or sepsis, which can be fatal.

Access provides surgical abortions up to 16 weeks of pregnancy. While they call it a "safe and effective procedure", there are risks. Ask the women who needed ambulances after their procedures. Visit our 911 Calls page to learn about some of the recent calls for an ambulance.