Safety of abortion

Like any medical procedure, it is important to know about possible risks and complications before you have an abortion. Surgical and medical abortion are both very safe procedures; in fact, there are fewer risks and complications associated with abortion than with childbirth[1]. Anti-choice activists, including those one might find in a "crisis pregnancy center”, often falsely assert that abortion can lead to depression, being unable to have children in the future, or different kinds of cancer. All of those claims havebeen proven false by a significant body of medical research[2]. If youdecide to have an abortion, you will meet with clinic staff who will review allpossible risks with you and answer any questions you may have.

Surgical abortion[3]

Surgical abortion is a safe, effective option for ending a pregnancy. The most common method is vacuum aspiration, which is performed in the first 14 weeks of pregnancy. This procedure is very brief, and many women describe it as "uncomfortable but bearable." Many clinics in Maryland offer sedation to help you relax, and some clinics offer general anesthesia to put you to sleep while the procedure is performed. You should leave the clinic with important information on how to take care of yourself after an abortion, plans for follow-up care and birth control and contact information for a nurse or doctorin case you have any questions or concerns.

Medical abortion[4]

The Abortion Pill, also known as RU-486,mifepristone or Mifeprex, is another safe and effective method for early abortion, generally used in the first 7-9 weeks of pregnancy. This kind of abortion uses two medications to end a pregnancy over time- usually a few days, but can last up to a few weeks in some cases. Within afew hours of taking the medication, you will probably have strong cramps and bleeding, similar to a heavy period. You may also have nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, chills or fatigue for a short period of time. It is important to return to the clinic for a follow-up visit to ensure that the abortion is complete. 

If you’ve decided to have an abortion, Abortion:Which Method is Right for Me? is a workbook that can help you decide between surgical and medical options.