Are you facing an unexpected pregnancy? The Alabama Pregnancy Test Center can confirm your pregnancy, verify how far along you are, and discuss which abortion options are available to you based on that information. Our staff of nurses and trained peer advocates will take the time to provide you with medically-accurate information about pregnancy options so you can make informed decisions regarding your pregnancy.
Whether you take the abortion pill or have a surgical procedure, this is a very serious decision and you deserve to have the facts about all your options. Our staff will take the time to listen to your fears and concerns and then provide information so you can decide.
The Abortion Pill
A medication that goes by many names – RU-486, medical abortion, chemical abortion, and the abortion pill. RU-486 is actually a combination of two pills. The first pill, mifepristone, is prescribed by the doctor at the hospital or clinic, and is taken there. It causes the lining of your uterus to thin so the embryo cannot stay implanted.
The second pill, misoprostol, is taken at home at least 24 hours later. This pill causes cramping and bleeding so your body can expel the embryo. After this happens, the termination is complete.
The abortion pill was only designed to be effective through the first nine weeks of pregnancy. If your pregnancy is farther along, you’ll need a surgical abortion to terminate it.
Surgical Abortion
There are a few different surgical procedures to end a pregnancy depending on how far along you are. They all involve an injection into your uterus to cause fetal demise. From there, rods are inserted to cause your cervix to expand and a tube inserted into your uterus with a suction device attached. The doctor will then suction out the pregnancy.
Sometimes, the doctor may also use a device to scrape the inside of your uterus to ensure the entire pregnancy was expelled. You may be sore after the procedure and will need to take the time necessary to rest and heal.
Abortion Side Effects
Because abortion is a serious medical procedure, there are certain risks and side effects that are associated with it. This is true whether you take the pill or have a surgical procedure. The most common side effects are:
- Mild to heavy bleeding and cramping
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or headaches
- Incomplete abortion
- Damage to your cervix or uterus
- Inability to have future children
- Inability to bond with partner or future children
It’s important to be aware of these side effects and risks so you can make a fully-informed decision.
Request An Appointment
If you have questions or want to learn more about abortion before scheduling an appointment for an abortion, we can help. We provide education on all your options. Request your free and confidential appointment today!
*The Alabama Pregnancy Test Center does not perform or refer for abortions, but we do offer free, confidential services to help you make an informed decision.