Medical VS Surgical Abortions: A Look At How They Compare.

Medical and surgical abortions are two methods of ending a pregnancy. While both methods serve the same purpose, there are several key differences between the two.

Medical abortions are non-surgical and involve taking medication to end a pregnancy. The most common medication used for medical abortions is Mifepristone (RU 486), which is taken orally and works by blocking the hormone progesterone.

This hormone is needed for a pregnancy to continue, and without it, the uterus will shed its lining and the pregnancy will end.

A second medication, Misoprostol (Cytotec), is taken the same day or a day or two later and causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue.

Medical abortions are generally considered safe and can be performed up to 11 to 12 weeks after the last menstrual period on out patient basis.

They are often less invasive and less painful than surgical abortions, and they offer several advantages over surgical procedures, including privacy, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Medical Abortion: A Lower Risk Of Complications

Medical abortions also have a lower risk of complications, such as infection and bleeding, and they have a shorter recovery time. Women can often return to their normal activities within a few days.

It is important to note that medical and surgical abortions can be safely performed up to 24 weeks pregnant or further if medically indicated.

In such cases, the risks and benefits of each method should be carefully considered, and the woman should have access to the information and resources she needs to make an informed decision about her reproductive health.

Surgical abortions involve a procedure that is performed in a medical facility by a trained healthcare professional.

The procedure may be performed under local IN sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the stage of pregnancy and personal preference.

There Are Two Main Types Of Surgical Abortion

There are two main types of surgical abortions: vacuum aspiration and dilation and curettage (D&C).

Vacuum aspiration is typically performed up to 12 weeks after the last menstrual period and involves the use of a suction device to remove the pregnancy tissue.

D&C is usually performed later in pregnancy, up to 16 weeks, and involves the use of instruments to remove the pregnancy tissue from the uterus.

Surgical abortions are generally considered safe and effective, but they carry a slightly higher risk of complications, such as bleeding, infection, and injury to the uterus or cervix.

They also tend to be more painful and require a longer recovery time. Women may need to take a few days off work and avoid heavy lifting and sexual activity for several weeks after the procedure.

Surgical Abortions May Be More Expensive

Additionally, surgical abortions can be more expensive than medical abortions, especially if they are performed later in pregnancy or if general anesthesia is required.

This can be an especially daunting factor for individuals considering abortion, and yet unsure of their financial abilities to pay for the procedure.

In any case, everyone has the right to access abortion care regardless of their financial status or geographic location and resources such as abortion funds provide financial assistance to those who cannot afford abortion services.

In conclusion

Medical and surgical abortions are two methods of ending a pregnancy, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Some women prefer medical abortions because they offer more privacy and convenience, while others prefer surgical abortions because they offer a faster and more certain end to the pregnancy.

Whether a woman chooses a medical or surgical abortion, it is important for her to be fully informed about the risks and benefits of each method, and to make an informed decision about her reproductive health and well-being.

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Dr James S Pendergraft | Orlando Women’s Center | Abortion Pill Clinic | Articles On Abortion