There are two ways to end an early pregnancy by abortion. One is a surgical procedure which may include a light anesthesia. The other is a medical abortion with a combination of pills that cause the pregnancy to be expelled from your body…similar to a miscarriage; and without anesthesia. It is considered to be one of the most standard and effective ways to end an early pregnancy, in the privacy of your own home.
The abortion pill has been FDA approved for almost 20 years and its popularity has skyrocketed since 2000. In 2015, approximately 25% of all abortions performed in the United States were done by pill. Studies have shown that the majority of women surveyed are satisfied with this method.
Since the approval by the FDA in 2000, the use of medication abortion has grown significantly. The updated FDA label extended the gestational age at which abortion pill is recommended and that is what increased the number of pregnancies eligible for the use of Mifepristone. its impact has been limited by federal and state regulations, because the drug’s availability may have shifted the average time of abortion earlier in the pregnancy, especially for women that live in underserved areas without any nearby clinic.
The most common type of medical abortion includes the medication called Mifepristone, also known as the “abortion pill”, which is administered orally at the Clinic. A second medication known as Misoprostal is taken later at home. This combination of medications causes cramping and bleeding similar to an early miscarriage. This method has proven safe and effective in 95%-98%of pregnancies up to 9 weeks.
The cost for the abortion pill can be anywhere from $$300 up to $800 depending on where you live in the United States. This is generally an all inclusive fee, so lab work, sonograms, the medications themselves and a follow up visit should be included. Most insurance providers do not cover elective abortion in any form.
It’s vital to educate yourself with information about abortion and the alternatives available to you. Many women choose a medical abortion to avoid a surgical procedure, and they are also comfortable with a whole process that will take several days, including a follow-up appointment at the doctor’s office before the process is considered to be completed. This type of abortion is successful around 96-98 times out of the 100. That means that, out of the hundred people, only 2 to 4 will need to have another treatment, whether with medication or a D&C (surgical procedure) to ensure that the pregnancy has ended.
In 2017, the abortion rate was 13.5 per 1000 women that were aged from 15 to 44, which is 8% down from 14.6 per 1000 women in 2014. That is the lowest rate that is ever observed in the United States. Back in 1973, which is the year when abortion became legal, the abortion rate was around 16.3. Although the overall abortion rate in the United States has hit a record low since it was legalized, the rate of people choosing medication abortion to end pregnancies is on the rise.
Once the pregnancy is ended, it is considered as the end of a menstrual cycle. It is rare for a period to be absent for longer than two months, so you can expect your next period within the next two months after the procedure.
Here at Aastra Women’s Center, we support YOUR freedom of choice. Please call us with any questions or concerns you may have. Our knowledgeable, supportive, and compassionate staff is here for you.
