Learning you’re pregnant when it wasn’t expected can bring many thoughts and questions, especially if abortion is something you’re considering. You may be gathering medical information, navigating legal considerations, and processing personal feelings at the same time. Taking time to understand your options and access accurate information can help you feel more informed as you navigate through your decision-making process.
At Spero Medical, we offer free, confidential pregnancy services to help give you clarity and support without pressure. You deserve a safe, private space to explore your options and feel informed before making any decision.
Schedule an appointment today to talk with a trusted professional who can answer your questions and provide reliable information.
Why Confirming Your Pregnancy Comes First
Before considering any pregnancy-related option, it’s important to confirm key medical details. An ultrasound is the most reliable way to determine:
- Gestational age: How far along you are in your pregnancy, which affects which options are safe and medically appropriate.
- Pregnancy location: Confirming the pregnancy is in the uterus, since ectopic pregnancies require immediate medical attention.
- Viability: Whether the pregnancy is progressing normally or if a miscarriage has occurred.
Having this information can help reduce health risks and support informed decision-making. Without confirmation, you won’t be able to know the potential risks or the appropriate next steps.
Understanding Abortion Methods
Abortion generally falls into two categories:
- Medical abortion involves taking two drugs in sequence, mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for the pregnancy to continue, and misoprostol causes uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy. Common side effects include cramping, vaginal bleeding, nausea, fever, or fatigue.
- Surgical abortion is performed in a medical setting and varies depending on gestational age. During this type of procedure, an abortion provider dilates the cervix using drugs or instruments and then manually removes the pregnancy using a mixture of scraping and suction. Side effects may include cramping, vaginal bleeding, nausea, or tiredness.
Both methods carry potential risks, including infection, heavy or prolonged bleeding, or an incomplete abortion that requires follow-up care. Surgical abortions can also cause damage to the cervix, scar tissue on the wall of the uterus, and uterine perforation.
Contact a medical professional right away if you experience intense pain, heavy bleeding (soaking two or more pads per hour for two consecutive hours), fever, chills, or unusual vaginal discharge, as these symptoms can signal a possible complication.
Considering Physical and Emotional Health
Physical and emotional responses to abortion vary from person to person. While some women report feeling resolved, others may have lingering questions or emotional reactions. A 2023 study found that experiencing pressure to undergo an abortion may be linked to poorer mental and emotional outcomes.
Creating space and time to consider your situation and discuss questions in a respectful, pressure-free setting can support thoughtful decision-making.
Finding a Place for Clear Information
You don’t have to navigate these questions alone. Spero Medical provides free pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and confidential consultations to help you understand your pregnancy and explore your options safely.
Schedule a confidential appointment to receive accurate medical information and compassionate guidance.
Spero Medical does not provide or refer for abortions.