Abortion Information: Types, Risks, Side Effects & What to Expect

Understanding Abortion Procedures:

Types, Risks, Side Effects & Cost

Whether you’re considering abortion or still trying to figure out what to do with an unexpected pregnancy, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed, scared, or unsure. Understanding how abortion procedures work, what the risks are, and what to expect can help you make a more informed and confident decision. This article will walk you through that information in a clear, compassionate, and judgment-free way, so you feel supported no matter where you are in the process.

What is Abortion and Why is it Performed?

In medical terms, abortion is defined as the termination of a pregnancy through either medical or surgical means. It is different from a miscarriage, which is the natural loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week of pregnancy. In contrast, an induced abortion is a procedure performed intentionally to end a pregnancy.

Abortion may be considered for a number of personal, medical, or life circumstances, and there’s no single reason that applies to everyone. Some women didn’t plan to get pregnant and feel unprepared to continue the pregnancy. Others may be dealing with health conditions, relationship stress, financial strain, or emotional overwhelm.

For some, the timing just feels off. Others may already be caring for children and worry they can’t take on more. There are also situations where continuing the pregnancy may pose a risk to the woman’s health or where the baby has been diagnosed with a serious medical condition.

Other common reasons include:

Not feeling financially or emotionally ready
Relationship or partner difficulties
Concerns about finishing school, keeping a job, or future plans
Wanting to focus on the children they already have
Pressure from others or feeling unsupported
Believing they’re not in a place to provide the life they want for a child

It’s also common for women to have more than one reason. Every situation is unique, and the decision is often shaped by many different factors, not just one. No matter the reason, it’s okay to seek answers. Understanding the abortion process and what to expect can help you feel more informed, less alone, and more equipped to make the choice that’s right for you.

While abortion procedures can vary depending on how far along the pregnancy is, the two most common types are:

Medical abortion (commonly known as the abortion pill)
Surgical abortion (done in a clinical setting)

Each method has its own process, timeline, and potential side effects. In this article, we’ll break down:

Abortion methods
What to expect during abortion, common side effects, and risks
Basic abortion costs
When to seek medical help or evaluation

Types of Abortion Procedures Explained: Medical vs Surgical Abortion

If you’re researching abortion, understanding how the different procedures work can help you feel more prepared. There are two main types of abortion: medical abortion and surgical abortion. The method used depends on how far along the pregnancy is, your health history, and access to care.

1. Medical Abortion (Abortion Pill)

A medical abortion involves taking medication to end an early pregnancy. It’s often called the abortion pill, though it actually includes two medications taken in sequence.

Medications Used

Mifepristone is the first pill. It blocks the hormone progesterone, which the body needs to continue the pregnancy.
Misoprostol is the second pill, taken 24 to 48 hours later. It causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue.

How Medical Abortion Works

The abortion process usually begins within a few hours after taking misoprostol. Most women experience heavy cramping and bleeding, along with symptoms like nausea, chills, or fatigue. Medical abortion is usually performed during the first 10 to 11 weeks of pregnancy.

What is Self-Managed Abortion (SMA)

A self-managed abortion refers to the use of abortion pills without direct supervision from a healthcare provider. It often involves the same medications, mifepristone and misoprostol, or misoprostol alone.

Risks and Considerations with SMA

While some complete the process at home safely, complications can still occur. These may include:

Incomplete abortion
Excessive or prolonged bleeding
Infection or fever

If you’re considering or have attempted a self-managed abortion, it’s important to seek medical attention if anything doesn’t feel right or if symptoms worsen.

It is important to remember that a positive pregnancy test does not always indicate a sustainable pregnancy; an ultrasound at Clear Choice can confirm whether or not you’re really pregnant. This valuable information will help you better understand what options are available to you. Your safest option is to obtain an ultrasound before undergoing any type of abortion.

Considering mail-order abortion? Here are 3 things to know first.

2. Surgical Abortion (In-Clinic Procedures)

A surgical abortion is performed by a medical provider in a clinic or hospital. The method used depends on how far along the pregnancy is.

Types of Surgical Abortion Based on Gestational Age

Surgical abortion procedures vary depending on how far along the pregnancy is. The two most common methods are suction aspiration and dilation and evacuation (D&E).

➔ Suction Aspiration (Vacuum Aspiration)

When It’s Used

Suction aspiration is used during the first trimester, generally up to 14-16 weeks of pregnancy.

Procedure Overview

This in-clinic procedure begins with the insertion of a speculum to access the cervix. Rods called dilators are used to open the cervix. Once dilated, a tube is inserted into the uterus, and a suction device is then used to remove the pregnancy tissue. Local anesthesia or mild sedation may be used depending on the provider and patient’s situation.

➔ Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)

When It’s Used

Dilation and Evacuation is performed during the second trimester, most often between 15 to 24 weeks of pregnancy.

Procedure Overview

D&E involves preparation before the procedure itself. The provider may begin by using medication, absorbent rods (laminaria), or mechanical dilators to open the cervix. This cervical preparation can take up to 1 to 2 days, depending on how far along the pregnancy is and the individual’s medical needs.

Before the procedure, patients are usually given sedation or anesthesia. In some cases, an epidural block may be used. Once the cervix is sufficiently dilated, the provider uses a combination of vacuum suction and surgical instruments like forceps or a curette to remove the pregnancy. Some providers may use ultrasound guidance to assist with the procedure. In some cases, medication may be administered before the procedure to stop the fetal heartbeat.

After the tissue is removed, the provider may give medication to contract the uterus and help reduce bleeding. The process and recovery vary based on gestational age and the individual’s medical condition.

Less Common Surgical Abortion Procedures

In rare circumstances, particularly during later stages of pregnancy or when there are medical complications, a provider may use a method called dilation and extraction(D&X). This is a more complex surgical procedure and is not commonly available in most clinical settings.

Anesthesia and Pain Management

Anesthesia protocols vary depending on the method and clinical setting. Options include:

Local anesthesia to numb the cervix
Sedation to reduce awareness
General anesthesia in later or more complex procedures

Abortion Side Effects and Risks: What You Should Know

Both medical and surgical abortions may involve side effects or complications, and the possibility of these risks can vary based on gestational age, method used, personal health, and access to follow-up care.

Common Side Effects of Medical Abortion (Abortion Pill)

After taking the abortion pill, side effects are usually strongest within the first 24 to 48 hours. These include:

Cramping: As the uterus expels pregnancy tissue, cramping can range from moderate to severe.
Heavy bleeding: Bleeding typically starts within a few hours of taking misoprostol. It’s often heavier than a normal period and may include large clots. Bleeding may continue for up to two weeks.
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea: Women experience digestive symptoms after taking misoprostol, the second medication in a medical abortion. These symptoms start within a few hours and may last for several hours to a day.
Fever or chills: Some individuals experience a fever or body chills, especially after taking misoprostol.
Fatigue: The body feels physically drained from blood loss and hormonal shifts.

Common Side Effects of Surgical Abortion

Surgical abortions may cause various side effects, which can vary depending on the procedure and the individual:

Bleeding: Bleeding often resembles a light period and may continue for several days to a week. It may stop and start during this time. In some cases, spotting may continue for up to two weeks.
Cramping: Uterine cramping occurs as the body works to return the uterus to its pre-pregnancy size. The intensity of cramps can vary. While it may feel similar to menstrual cramps for some, others may experience more notable discomfort.
Fatigue: After a surgical abortion, the body may feel weak or physically strained due to blood loss, the effects of anesthesia, or the procedure itself. Some women experience body aches, back pain, or pelvic pressure.

Abortion Risks and Complications

Both medical and surgical abortions involve potential risks. The complications listed below can occur following either procedure:

Incomplete abortion: This occurs when pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus. It may happen more often with medical abortions and requires additional treatment, such as a second dose of medication or a follow-up surgical procedure.
Excessive bleeding (hemorrhage): Heavy or prolonged bleeding may indicate that the uterus hasn’t fully emptied or that a blood vessel was injured during the procedure. This may require medication, a repeat procedure, or, in some cases, surgical intervention.
Infection or sepsis: Retained tissue, improper hygiene during the procedure, or untreated infections can lead to uterine infection. Signs include fever lasting more than 24 hours, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, or pelvic pain. If not addressed, this can progress to sepsis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate care.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): If an abortion is performed while an untreated sexually transmitted infection (STI) like chlamydia or gonorrhea is present, it can lead to PID. This may cause chronic pelvic pain, fertility problems, or abscesses.
Uterine perforation: During a surgical abortion, instruments used to remove pregnancy tissue can puncture the wall of the uterus. This may result in internal injury, and additional medical or surgical treatment may be required.
Injury to the cervix or nearby organs: The process of dilating the cervix can cause cervical tearing or laceration. There is also a risk of injury to nearby organs, including the bladder or intestines, especially in procedures performed later in pregnancy when more dilation is required.
Allergic reactions to medication: Reactions to mifepristone or misoprostol can include rashes, shortness of breath, or swelling and require immediate medical attention.
Complications related to anesthesia: Sedation or general anesthesia may result in side effects such as low blood pressure, difficulty breathing, or adverse drug reactions.

When Abortion Complications Can Occur

Some complications may happen during the procedure, such as excessive bleeding, injury to the uterus, or reaction to anesthesia. Others may not appear until days or weeks later, such as infection or signs of an incomplete abortion.

If you have had an abortion, seek immediate medical care if you experience:

Severe or persistent abdominal pain that doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter pain relief.
Heavy bleeding (soaking through two pads per hour for two or more consecutive hours).
Fever above 100.4°F (38°C) lasting more than 24 hours.
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge, which could signal an infection.
Persistent dizziness, fainting, or rapid heart rate which may indicate blood loss.

Delaying treatment for complications can lead to serious health issues. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait. Reach out to a qualified medical provider right away.

How Abortion Affects Mental and Emotional Health

In addition to physical effects, abortion may also lead to emotional or psychological responses, which can vary significantly from person to person. There is no single “right” way to feel afterward. Reactions may depend on several factors, including personal beliefs, the circumstances surrounding the pregnancy, and how well-informed the individual was at the time of the decision.

Reported Emotional and Psychological Symptoms After an Abortion

Some women report experiencing emotional or mental health symptoms after an abortion. These may develop shortly after the procedure or appear weeks or months later:

Grief: Some individuals report feelings of grief or emotional pain, particularly when the decision was made under pressure or during a stressful situation.
Sense of loss: Some women describe feeling a sense of loss after the procedure, even if they were confident in their decision. This feeling may be hard to explain or talk about and can show up as quiet sadness, emotional disconnect, or a lingering awareness that something has changed.
Regret: This may appear as second-guessing the decision or wishing for a different outcome, especially if the abortion conflicted with personal values or beliefs.
Sadness or depression: Some women feel emotionally low after the procedure. This may show up as ongoing sadness, lack of motivation, or difficulty enjoying things they normally care about. These feelings may last beyond the initial recovery period.
Anxiety: Physical and emotional symptoms such as restlessness, sleep disturbance, and racing thoughts can emerge as a response to the experience.
Guilt or shame: Feelings of guilt or moral conflict may arise, particularly if the decision is at odds with one’s beliefs or cultural background.

Emotional difficulty may be more likely in certain situations, such as:

Feeling pressured to undergo the procedure by a partner, family member, or other external influence.
Lacking social or emotional support before or after the abortion.
Holding moral, religious, or cultural beliefs that conflict with the decision.
Having pre-existing mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, or past trauma.

It is important to evaluate the potential psychological impact before making a decision, especially if someone has a personal or family history of emotional or mental health challenges. Some individuals may not expect to experience emotional effects and are unprepared to process them afterward. In such cases, unresolved or delayed reactions may occur weeks or months after the procedure.

Clear Choice offers medically accurate information on abortion procedures, including the potential for emotional and psychological effects. We provide confidential, nonjudgmental support to help individuals process their options, ask questions, and understand possible outcomes, including mental health considerations, before making a decision. At Clear Choice Clinic, you will be provided with an ultrasound at no cost to you, to confirm a viable pregnancy. If you don’t have a viable pregnancy, you will not need an abortion.

Abortion Costs in the U.S. in 2025

The cost of an abortion can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of procedure, how far along the pregnancy is, where the procedure is performed, and whether the person has any form of insurance coverage.

Factors That Affect Abortion Costs

1. Type of Abortion Procedure

The method used, medical or surgical, plays a major role in determining cost.

Medical abortion, which involves taking a combination of pills (typically mifepristone followed by misoprostol), is often less expensive than surgical procedures. It is generally available up to 10-11 weeks of pregnancy. The medication may be taken in a clinic or sent to the patient through mail, depending on the provider and state laws.
Surgical abortion involves an in-clinic or hospital procedure using suction, dilation, and surgical instruments. These procedures require clinical staff, exam rooms, and more medical oversight, which increases the cost. The further along the pregnancy, the more involved and more expensive the procedure becomes.

2. Gestational Age

How far along the pregnancy is at the time of the abortion directly affects the cost. Early-term procedures are shorter and less medically intensive, while second-trimester abortions require more preparation, equipment, and sedation.

Abortions performed in the first trimester are less complex and therefore lower in cost.
Abortions in the second trimester, especially after 16 weeks, often require multiple appointments, longer dilation, and higher levels of anesthesia. As a result, costs increase significantly with gestational age.
After 20 weeks, abortion availability becomes more limited, and prices may be even higher due to specialized care and facility needs.

3. Geographic Location

Where someone seeks the procedure also impacts the cost.

In states with more providers and fewer restrictions, competition and availability may help keep prices somewhat lower.
In states with limited access to abortion services, costs may be higher due to fewer clinics and more restrictive legal requirements.
Individuals in rural or underserved areas may have to travel long distances to access care, which adds additional transportation and lodging costs to the total.

Learn more about where abortion is currently legal, restricted, or banned in the United States.

Average Abortion Costs (As of 2025)

The cost of an abortion depends heavily on the type of procedure, how far along the pregnancy is, and where the individual seeks care. These costs can create a significant financial burden, especially for those without insurance coverage or access to nearby providers.

A medical abortion, which uses prescription medications to end a pregnancy, generally costs around $500 to $950 without insurance. In some states, providers may offer reduced pricing through telehealth services, but access is limited and not available in all areas. Additional fees for lab work, ultrasound, or follow-up appointments can also increase the total cost.

A surgical abortion costs around $600 to $3,000 , depending on the trimester, provider, location, and whether sedation or other clinical services are included.

Wrapping Up: Making an Informed Decision About Your Pregnancy

Whether you’re exploring your options or seeking clarity about what to expect, understanding how abortion procedures work is an important step toward making an informed decision.

Medical abortion, typically available during the first 10-11 weeks of pregnancy, involves prescription medications to end a pregnancy at home or under clinical supervision. Surgical abortion is usually performed in a clinic setting and may be available up to 24 weeks or more, depending on the provider, state laws, and specific medical circumstances.

Each procedure comes with potential side effects, physical and emotional risks, and financial considerations. Factors like gestational age, access to care, insurance coverage, and state laws can all play a role in what options are available and how much they may cost.

If you’re feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or just want to better understand your options, you’re not alone. Taking the time to talk with a medical professional can provide you with clarity and help you make the best decision for your situation.

Clear Choice offers free and confidential services including pregnancy testing, ultrasound confirmation, STI testing and treatment, and information on all available options. We are here to walk you through every step of the process, without pressure or judgment, so you can feel fully informed and supported.

Disclaimer

The information in this article is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition or decision.

Clear Choice does not provide abortions, but can provide information to help you understand your options so you can make an informed decision.