What Are the Different Types of Abortion?

August 7, 2024

We understand the decision concerning abortion is complex and personal. Knowing the different types of abortion procedures is essential for making informed decisions about your health. In this blog, we'll cover the various methods available to help you gather information about your situation. 


Learning about these procedures can help you better protect your health and make the right choice for you.


Medical Abortion

A medical abortion is the process of using drugs to end a pregnancy. Commonly referred to as the “abortion pill,” a medical abortion actually uses two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. 


Mifepristone works by blocking the hormone progesterone. 24-48 hours later, you would then take misoprostol to cause uterine contractions and expel the pregnancy from the vagina.


Medical abortion is only
FDA-approved through ten weeks gestation (how far along you are). These drugs are typically prescribed at a clinic and taken at home.


If you have a medical abortion, you will have vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping. You may also experience fever, chills, headache, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. 


The
risks of medical abortion include:


  • Infection
  • Digestive system discomfort
  • Heavy, prolonged bleeding
  • Fever
  • An ongoing pregnancy (if the procedure fails)
  • An incomplete abortion (which may need to be followed by a surgical abortion) 

Surgical Abortion

A surgical abortion uses a combination of drugs, medical instruments, suction/vacuuming, or forceps to remove a pregnancy from the uterus. 


Surgical abortions are performed in a clinic setting or hospital later in pregnancy. You will likely spend a few hours afterward in a recovery room to check for excessive bleeding and complications.


The
risks of a surgical abortion include:


  • Infection
  • Damage to the cervix
  • Scar tissue on the uterine wall (which can lead to absent, painful periods or future infertility)
  • Perforation of the uterus

Before Seeking An Abortion

It’s crucial to get informed not only about the risks abortion can pose to your health but also detailed information about your pregnancy and status. There are a variety of circumstances where you might not be eligible for an abortion. 


At Collage, we offer free and confidential pregnancy services, such as lab-quality pregnancy testing and limited OB ultrasounds, because we believe you deserve to have access to the information you need to protect your health. 


You’re not alone in this. We’re here for you.
Make an appointment today.

July 2, 2025
If you’re in your second trimester (between 13 and 26 weeks of pregnancy), you might be asking, What now? Maybe you just found out you’re pregnant, or maybe this stage of pregnancy is bringing new questions or emotions. No matter where you are in your journey, Collage is here to offer support, information, and a safe place to talk through your options. Understanding Abortion Laws in Nebraska In Nebraska, abortion is not permitted after 12 weeks gestation, with limited exceptions. If you’re considering abortion and believe you may be near or past this point, it’s important to have an ultrasound to confirm how far along you are. If you’re unsure how far along you are, Collage offers no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing and ultrasounds to provide the medical information you need to understand your next steps. Exploring Your Other Pregnancy Options If abortion is not an option or you’re unsure what’s next, you still have choices. We can talk with you more about each of them. Parenting Parenting might feel like something you’re not ready for or even impossible right now. But with the right support, it may be more achievable than you think. You don’t have to have all the answers today. At Collage, we can connect you with local resources, parenting classes, and support systems that can help you prepare, step by step. You won’t be alone. Adoption If parenting doesn’t seem like the right fit for your current season, adoption is another option that gives you the ability to make a thoughtful plan for your child. Today’s adoption process puts you in control of key decisions, including:  Choosing the adoptive family Deciding how much (if any) communication you’d like to have Creating a plan that reflects your goals and values We offer adoption referrals and a confidential space to explore what this might look like for you—no pressure, just information and support. You’re Not Alone Navigating pregnancy in the second trimester can feel heavy, but you don’t have to walk through it by yourself. At Collage, you’ll find compassionate care, medical services, and honest answers to your questions. Schedule your no-cost appointment today. We’re here to listen and support through this process.
June 4, 2025
An unexpected pregnancy can leave you with more questions than answers. Especially when friends are urging you to choose abortion, you may be more confused than ever. While their advice might come from care or fear, it’s essential to remember this is your pregnancy, future, and choice. At Collage, we’re here to help you navigate this pressure and find a path that feels right for you so that you can feel informed and confident about your decision. Reach out to us today for no-cost support. Listen to Your Instincts Your friends might be an important part of your life, but your instincts matter most. If abortion doesn’t feel right, take a moment to ask: What’s holding me back? Maybe you’re picturing parenting your child or are curious about adoption. It’s also important to keep in mind that abortion is a serious procedure that your friends may not fully grasp the details of. Physical and emotional risks are involved, making it a more complex decision. Your hesitation is a sign to slow down and explore, not to rush into a choice you’re not ready for. Talk It Out If your friends keep pressing, try a gentle conversation. Let them know you understand they’re worried, you’re not sure about abortion yet. Ask what’s driving their advice. Maybe they’re scared about your finances or future. Maybe they’re simply telling you what they’d do in your situation, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Understanding their side can ease tension without giving in. If they won’t respect your space, set boundaries and let them know you need time to think. You don’t owe them an immediate answer. Find Your Support Surround yourself with people who’ll lift you up, not pull you down. Write down your thoughts or talk to someone neutral. You can find a counselor or even online spaces where you can share your heart with those who won’t push one option over another. Even a trusted family member, a mentor, or a place like Collage can offer perspective without strings. You deserve to make this decision with clear facts and a steady heart, not under pressure. Help is Available If your friends are pushing abortion but you’re not ready, Collage is here with no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and pregnancy options education to help you decide what’s next. Our trained team offers confidential support to explore parenting, adoption, or abortion without pressure. Contact us for a no-cost appointment today. You deserve to choose your own path.
May 21, 2025
An unexpected pregnancy can flip your world upside down, and the urge to keep it under wraps might hit hard. Maybe you’re thinking abortion could erase the situation quietly.
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