Abortion is also known as pregnancy termination; it's a procedure to end a pregnancy by removing the fetus or the embryo from the uterus. There are different methods of performing abortions. Some of the various tools that are used for abortion include herbal abortifacients, sharpened tools and other gadgets and tools used in the procedure.

The legalities, choices and beliefs on the subject of abortion vary from region to region. In many parts of the world, there are ethical and legal controversies with the issues of abortion. Some people are pro-life and other people stand by a woman's right to choose whether to carry a fetus to term.

Here are some facts about medical and surgical abortion:

  • Medical Abortion. Medical abortion is the non-surgical type of abortion. For this type of abortion, drugs or pills are used to get rid of the embryo. Many people see this is a safe and effective way of terminating the pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. The common drugs used for this type of abortion are mifepristone and methotrexate. Sometimes, these drugs are also mixed with prostaglandin to increase the drugs' effect. Going through a medical abortion can take longer than a surgical abortion. This process can last up to 21 days, depending on the woman’s body. There may also be some side effects from the drug intake. Some of these include feelings of nausea and exhaustion. You may also feel feverish and have headaches. Another drug sometimes used in medical abortion is Mifeprex. This is inserted in the vagina and is used to induce labor. After this procedure, bleeding will occur; this will be a sign that the fetus has been terminated.
  • Surgical Abortion. Surgical abortion is an outpatient procedure. The patient is normally not sedated; she can recover from the procedure quickly, and may be able to go about her usual duties within a few hours. There are two different types of surgical abortion. The first is for women who have been pregnant for 6-14 weeks and the second one is for women who have been pregnant for 15-19 weeks. Most medical professionals do not conduct abortions for women who have been pregnant for more than 19 weeks unless the mother’s life is in danger.

To undergo a surgical abortion, you will have to go to the doctor to verify the pregnancy. Ultrasound will be used to determine your due date. Other tests will also be conducted. These include STD tests, cancer tests and a pap smear. Sometimes, you will be given 24 hours to decide whether you really want to go through the procedure.

For the procedure, you will be given a sedative and the doctor will dilate the cervix. A suction device will then be inserted to suck out the fetus. You may experience cramp-like pains that can last up to 10 minutes or so.

Before going through an abortion, make sure that you learn all that you can about the procedure. Learn about the differences between medical and surgical abortion options; this will be helpful in making your decision. Also, make sure that you find a doctor who is an accredited abortionist and not just someone who occasionally performs the procedure.

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