3 Factors That Can Increase Your Pain When Taking Chemical Abortions Pills
A chemical abortion, also known as a medication abortion, is a type of abortion that involves taking pills to terminate a pregnancy. These pills work by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for pregnancy to continue. This causes the lining of the uterus to break down, and the pregnancy is expelled from the body. As with any abortion, there are some factors that can increase the pain and discomfort associated with the procedure. Here are three factors to be aware of.
Timing
The timing of the medication abortion can have a significant impact on the level of pain and discomfort experienced. Generally, the earlier in the pregnancy the pills are taken, the less pain and discomfort there will be. This is because the uterus is still relatively small and the fetus is smaller, making it easier to expel. Conversely, if the pills are taken later in the pregnancy, the fetus will be larger, which can result in more pain, cramping, and bleeding. Additionally, the longer the pregnancy has been allowed to progress, the more emotionally difficult the procedure may be due to the size and development of the fetus that is expelled.
Dose
The dose of medication used in a chemical abortion can also affect the level of pain and discomfort experienced. There are different protocols for medication abortions, but generally, the person will be given two different types of pills. The first pill, mifepristone, is taken at the clinic and blocks the hormone progesterone. The second pill, misoprostol, is taken later at home and causes the uterus to contract and expel the baby. The dose of misoprostol can vary depending on the protocol used, but higher doses are generally associated with more pain and discomfort.
Support
Finally, the level of support and care received during a chemical abortion can have a significant impact on the level of pain and discomfort experienced. While the physical process of expelling the baby can be uncomfortable, the emotional experience can be even more difficult. It is important for the woman undergoing the procedure to have access to compassionate care, both during and after the abortion. This can include counseling, support groups, and access to pain medication as needed. Additionally, having a support person, such as a partner, friend, or family member, can make a big difference in a woman’s emotional experience.
While we don’t provide abortions at Women’s Resource Medical Center, we have post-abortion care and counseling for men and women who have gone through the pain of losing a child to abortion. Please call us at 702-366-1247 to get more details.
If you are considering a chemical abortion, it is important to be aware of the factors that can increase the pain and discomfort associated with the procedure, and to seek out the support and care you need to make the best pregnancy decision possible.
Contact Women’s Resource Medical Center for a free appointment to discuss your pregnancy options. You don’t have to walk through these decisions alone. We’re here to help!