Medical Abortions Clinic in Arcadia, CA

A medical abortion is a non-surgical procedure utilized to terminate a pregnancy, typically performed within the first nine weeks of gestation. Instead of surgery, medication is administered to induce the abortion process. The procedure involves a two-pill regimen. The first pill hinders the production of a crucial hormone required to sustain the pregnancy. As a result, without this hormone, the pregnancy cannot continue, leading to termination. The second pill triggers cramping and uterine bleeding, facilitating the expulsion of the pregnancy contents.
 
Medical abortions are generally conducted up until approximately nine weeks into the pregnancy, and they can be initiated as soon as the pregnancy is confirmed. To verify the pregnancy and its duration, a healthcare provider may employ an ultrasound. If the pregnancy has progressed beyond nine weeks, other alternatives to end the pregnancy will be discussed with the healthcare provider, allowing the individual to make an informed decision based on their unique circumstances.
 
The decision to undergo a medical abortion is a deeply personal one, influenced by various factors. Women may choose this option due to concerns about congenital or hereditary diseases, to terminate an unwanted pregnancy, or to complete an early miscarriage. It can also be considered by women with health complications where continuing the pregnancy poses life-threatening risks.

The process of medical abortion involves two medications, mifepristone and misoprostol. Firstly, mifepristone is taken, which halts the growth of the pregnancy. Generally, individuals don’t experience any immediate effects after taking mifepristone.
 
The second medicine, misoprostol, is taken either immediately after mifepristone or within 48 hours, as directed by your doctor or nurse. Misoprostol induces cramping and bleeding, leading to the emptying of the uterus. This results in the expulsion of pregnancy tissue through the vagina. The sensation is similar to that of an early miscarriage. The cramping and bleeding can last for several hours, and most people typically pass the pregnancy tissue within 4-5 hours, although it may take longer in some cases.

During an abortion medication procedure, you can expect the onset of cramping and bleeding within 1 to 4 hours after taking the misoprostol. It is common to observe significant blood clots or tissue clumps, some of which may be as large as a lemon, as the abortion process unfolds.
 
However, as the pregnancy tissue is expelled, the intensity of cramping and bleeding gradually diminishes. It is normal for some individuals to experience on-and-off cramps for an additional 1 or 2 days after the procedure.
 
Following the abortion, you may anticipate experiencing bleeding and spotting for several weeks. You have the flexibility to choose between pads, tampons, or a menstrual cup based on your comfort level. However, your nurse or doctor might recommend using pads during the abortion to monitor the amount of bleeding accurately.
 
The final step involves ensuring the success of the abortion. You might be asked to return to the health center for an ultrasound or blood test. Alternatively, you may be given a pregnancy test to take at home, with the option of discussing the results with your nurse or doctor over the phone if desired. These tests are performed to confirm that the abortion was successful and that your health is in good condition.

The main distinction between emergency contraception and medication abortion lies in their respective purposes: emergency contraception aims to prevent pregnancy, whereas medication abortion is intended to terminate an existing pregnancy.
 
Emergency contraception, commonly known as the “morning-after pill,” is taken within three to five days after unprotected sex or a contraceptive failure. Its primary mechanism involves preventing or delaying ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary. In some cases, it may also hinder the fertilization of an egg or its implantation in the uterus if ovulation has already occurred.
 
However, emergency contraception cannot terminate a pregnancy, as the medical community defines pregnancy as a fertilized egg that has been successfully implanted in the uterus. On the other hand, medication abortion is utilized to terminate an existing pregnancy.
 
Medical abortions are available at Woman’s First Choice. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Arcadia CA, Monrovia CA, Rosemead CA, El Monte CA, Pasadena CA, Alhambra CA, and Baldwin Park CA.