Abortion FAQs

What Is An Abortion?

Abortion is a medical procedure that ends a pregnancy.

Abortion is done with medication or through a minor surgical procedure, depending on how far along the pregnancy is.

A medication abortion uses two pills to end an early pregnancy. A surgical abortion involves a procedure, such as suction or dilation, done at a clinic.

How Does Abortion Occur?

Abortion is the medical process of ending a pregnancy using either medication or a simple surgical procedure.

A medication abortion involves two pills. The first blocks the pregnancy hormone (progesterone), and the second causes the uterus to contract and empty. This is usually done in the first 10 weeks of pregnancy.

A surgical abortion is done in a clinic. The doctor gently opens the cervix and removes the pregnancy using suction or medical tools, often with local or general anesthesia.

Medical Abortion V. Surgical Abortion?

A medical abortion ends a pregnancy using two prescribed pills, while a surgical abortion is done through a short in-clinic procedure.

Medical abortion uses mifepristone and misoprostol and is approved for use up to 10 weeks.

Surgical abortion involves opening the cervix and using suction or instruments to remove the pregnancy in a clinical setting.

How Long Do You Bleed After An Abortion?

Bleeding after an abortion is common and depends on the type of procedure and how far along the pregnancy was.

• After a medical abortion, heavier bleeding and small clots usually happen in the first few days. Light spotting may continue for up to six weeks.

• After a surgical abortion, bleeding often slows within a week, but light spotting can last one to two weeks.

How Much Does An Abortion Cost?

The cost of an abortion can vary based on how far along the pregnancy is, the type of procedure, and whether you have insurance.

Some people pay a small out-of-pocket fee, while others may have higher costs if their insurance doesn’t cover the procedure or if it takes place later in pregnancy.

What's In The Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill involves two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol.

• Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, which is needed to support the pregnancy.

• Misoprostol, taken 24–48 hours later, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.

This method is FDA-approved only through 10 weeks of pregnancy and should be done under medical supervision with a follow-up to check for complications.

What Are The Risks Of Abortion?

Like any medical procedure, abortion carries some risks. These depend on your health, how far along the pregnancy is, and the method used.

Medical Abortion (up to 10 weeks):

• Common: Heavy bleeding, cramping, nausea

• Rare: Incomplete abortion, infection, or untreated ectopic pregnancy

Surgical Abortion:

• Common: Cramping, light bleeding

• Rare: Uterine perforation, infection, cervical injury, or scarring (which may affect fertility)

Other Possible Risks:

• Emotional Impact: Reactions vary. Some feel relief, while others may struggle—especially with past mental health issues

• Severe complications: Very rare, but can include heavy bleeding, infection (sepsis), or death

• Fertility: Most people can get pregnant again. Rare complications like scarring may affect future fertility

Talk with a healthcare provider to understand your personal risks and get follow-up care.