Surgical Abortion [1]

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. Suction (from either a machine or a hand-held pump) is used to remove the pregnancy through the cervix (the opening to the uterus). This procedure is very brief, usually lasting 5-15 minutes. Although women's experiences with surgical abortion vary, many say that it is "uncomfortable but bearable." Many clinics in Maryland offer intravenous (IV) sedation, which will help you relax and feel comfortable. Some clinics offer general anesthesia that will put you to sleep while the procedure is performed. Your provider will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself after the procedure. Follow those instructions closely. You should leave the clinic with an emergency contact and plans for follow up care and future contraception.

Medical Abortion (The Abortion Pill) [2]

The Abortion Pill, also known as RU-486, mifepristone or Mifeprex, is another safe and effective method for early abortion. Generally, medical abortion is used in the first 7-9 weeks of pregnancy. A medical abortion uses two medications to end a pregnancy. The first weakens the attachment of the pregnancy to the uterus. The second makes the uterus cramp and causes bleeding, which expels the pregnancy. Within a few hours of taking the medication, you will probably have strong cramps and bleeding, similar to a heavy period. Pain medicine or a heating pad can help with the cramps. You may also have nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, chills or feel tired. These symptoms usually last a short time and stop on their own. It is important to return to the clinic for a follow-up visit to ensure that the abortion is complete.

Safety of Abortion

Surgical and medical abortion are very safe medical procedures. Complications from a first-trimester abortion are less frequent and less serious than those associated with childbirth.[3] Anti-abortion activists falsely claim abortion increases the risk of developing breast cancer and endangers future childbearing. These claims have been refuted by a significant body of medical research. The National Cancer Institute has concluded "induced abortion is not associated with an increase in breast cancer risk."

Opponents of choice also contend that abortion causes"post-abortion syndrome," which they claim has traits similar to post-traumatic stress disorder. In August 2008, the American Psychological Association issued a report from a task force on mental health and abortion. The study concluded that women who have an abortion have no greater risk of mental health problems than if they were to carry a pregnancy to term. Safe, uncomplicated abortion does not cause future birth defects, premature birth or low birth weight babies,ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, or infant death..[4]

[1] Safety of Abortion, NAF. http://www.prochoice.org/about_abortion/facts/safety_of_abortion.html.

[2] Mifepristone, NAF. http://www.prochoice.org/about_abortion/facts/facts_mifepristone.html.

[3]Safety of Abortion, NAF. http://www.prochoice.org/about_abortion/facts/safety_of_abortion.html.

[4]Thinking About Abortion, PPFA. http://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-topics/pregnancy/abortion-21519.htm.