Oops! You didn’t mean for it to happen, but you’re pregnant, and you’re not sure what to do. It happens more often than you’d think. The good news is, you’re not alone, and you’ve got options. We are here to help you feel more knowledgeable and comfortable with your situation. Let’s look at your options and some of the pros and cons that come with each of them.
Medication Abortion (The Abortion Pill)
The abortion pill has become widely available even though it is not legal in all states. The trouble is, increased availability comes with increased risks.
The abortion pill is only a safe medical option for certain women[1]. You are not a candidate for the abortion pill if you:
- Could be more than 10 weeks along in your pregnancy
- Have an IUD
- Could have an ectopic pregnancy
- Have certain medical conditions
- Are taking certain medications
- Have an allergy to one of the medications used
These potential risk factors make it very important to talk with a medical professional about your health and all of your risk factors. An ultrasound is also a very important first step to confirm that the pregnancy is viable and is located within the uterus. (Think you need an ultrasound? Reach out today to see about receiving a no-cost ultrasound in our clinic.)
The abortion pill also comes with a long list of possible side effects, including but not limited to:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- Ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
Surgical Abortion (Dilation and Curettage – D&C, Dilation and Evacuation – D&E)
Surgical abortion[2] – or an abortion procedure that takes place in a clinic – involves instruments being inserted into the uterus to remove the pregnancy. Surgical abortion is not legal in all states, and there are possible risks[3] associated with it including:
- Uterine perforation
- Infection
- Heavy bleeding
- Severe abdominal cramps
- Pelvic infection[4]
- Blood clots in the uterus
- Cut or torn cervix
YouTube and TikTok videos often downplay surgical abortions and make it sound like it’s an easy outpatient procedure, but it’s important to know that it comes with side effects – both emotionally and physically.
Adoption
Adoption is another option available to you. No matter your reasons for choosing adoption, it can be a great option for all who are involved – including you! Your health – physically and emotionally – is a top priority, so it’s important that you’re comfortable throughout the entire pregnancy and adoption process. We can help you become informed and walk alongside you throughout this process.
Parenting
The thought of becoming a parent can be scary or overwhelming. We get it! But you’re not alone. If you choose to keep and parent your baby, you can rest assured knowing that we are here for you throughout your pregnancy and beyond. PLL has classes, resources, and earning opportunities that can help you get the things you need during pregnancy and after the baby comes. At PLL, you could earn things like diapers, wipes, baby clothes, car seats, strollers, and more! Big challenges are easier to face when you have a good support system, and we promise to be exactly that.
What’s Next?
Looking for more information? Schedule a free consultation to confirm your pregnancy with a lab-quality test and talk through your options with one of our friendly medical professionals. Our goal is to help you feel informed and empowered to make decisions about your future.
Disclaimer: This website and blog do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided here is only for general understanding. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Please be aware that PLL does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources:
- Medical Abortion. Mayo Clinic. (2024, June 28). https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/medical-abortion/about/pac-20394687
- Abortion – Procedure. Medline Plus. (2022, November 10). https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002912.htm
- Dilation and Curettage. Cleveland Clinic. (2024, February 9). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/dilation-and-curettage
- Methods and Medical Risks. Lousiana Department of Health. (n.d.). https://ldh.la.gov/page/abortion-methods-medical-risks