Understanding Abortion: What You Should Know
If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. You may be researching your options and coming across terms like abortion pill, medication abortion, self-managed abortion, or at-home abortion. At Open Arms Real Choices Clinic, we are here to provide clear, evidence-based information so you can make an informed, confident decision about your health.
Two Types of Abortion: Chemical and Surgical
There are two main methods of ending a pregnancy: chemical (medication) abortion and surgical abortion. Each comes with its own risks, procedures, and considerations. Understanding what each involves is an important part of making a fully informed choice.
Medication Abortion (The Abortion Pill)
Also referred to as the abortion pill, abortion by the pill, or at-home abortion, this method uses two medications—mifepristone and misoprostol—to end a pregnancy, typically during the first 10 weeks.
Step 1: Mifepristone
This first medication blocks the hormone progesterone, which is essential for maintaining pregnancy. Without enough progesterone, the uterine lining breaks down and the embryo cannot survive.
Step 2: Misoprostol
Taken 24–48 hours later, this second pill causes strong uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy. This step can be physically intense and emotionally distressing for many women.
Abortion Pill Side Effects
Taking the abortion pill is not without risks. Common abortion pill side effects may include:
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Heavy bleeding and cramping
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Nausea and vomiting
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Headache and dizziness
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Fever or chills
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Risk of infection or incomplete abortion
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Emotional distress or regret
It’s important to note that self-managed abortion or abortion pills purchased online may carry additional risks due to lack of medical oversight.
Abortion Pill Cost & Online Risks
The abortion pill cost can vary widely—from $350 to $750 or more—depending on the provider, geographic location, and whether follow-up care is included. Some online sources may offer cheaper prices, but these pills are often not FDA-approved, and there is no way to verify their dosage or formulation. In many cases, the pills arrive unlabeled or with no manufacturer information, making them potentially unsafe and medically unreliable.
Self-administering an at-home abortion without professional oversight increases the risk of serious complications, including incomplete abortion, infection, or hemorrhage. If you are considering this route, it’s critical to speak with a trusted medical professional first.
Can the Abortion Pill Be Reversed?
If you’ve taken mifepristone and regret your decision, abortion pill reversal may be possible. The process involves administering progesterone, a natural hormone, to counteract the effects of mifepristone.
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Success Rate: Up to 64–68% effective when started within 72 hours
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Safety: Progesterone has been used safely in pregnancy for decades
📞 Call the Abortion Pill Reversal Hotline at 1-877-558-0333 to speak with a medical provider immediately.
Surgical Abortion Procedures
Surgical abortions are more invasive and typically performed in clinical settings.
First Trimester (5–13 Weeks)
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Vacuum aspiration uses suction to remove the pregnancy tissue from the uterus.
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May involve a D&C (dilation and curettage) to ensure the uterus is fully cleared.
Second Trimester (13–24 Weeks)
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Dilation and evacuation (D&E) involves dilating the cervix and removing the fetus in parts using surgical instruments.
Risks of Surgical Abortion:
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Infection or heavy bleeding
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Uterine or cervical damage
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Incomplete abortion
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Future pregnancy complications
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Emotional and psychological distress
Emotional Effects of Abortion
Many women experience emotional side effects following abortion, including:
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Depression or anxiety
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Regret or grief
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Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
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Difficulty in future relationships or bonding with children
If you’re struggling emotionally, we provide post-abortion support and healing programs.
You Have Options—And Support
At Open Arms Real Choices Clinic, we offer a compassionate, judgment-free environment where you can get the facts you need. Even if you’re still undecided or considering abortion pill online options, come talk to us first.
✅ Lab-quality pregnancy testing
✅ Limited obstetrical ultrasound to confirm viability, heartbeat, and gestational age
✅ Pregnancy options counseling
✅ Parenting support & adoption referrals
✅ Abortion information, including procedures and side effects
📅 Schedule your free appointment
📍 8056 N. Wayne Drive, Hayden, ID 83835
📞 Call: 208.667.5433
🔗 realchoicesclinic.com/make-an-appointment
You are not alone. We are here to support you with care, compassion, and clarity—so you can make the best choice for your future.
Sources:
Abortion Drug Facts – Lozier Institute
Chemical Abortion: A Brief Overview
Immediate complications after medical compared with surgical termination of pregnancy – PubMed
