Knowing some key facts about abortion beforehand is vital. For instance, did you know the type of procedure you qualify for is generally determined by how far along you are in your pregnancy?

Oklahoma bans abortion, and the FDA does not recommend buying abortion drugs online. This may require you to travel for an abortion. Before you head out of the state, there are some facts you should know ahead of time.

Although Stillwater Life Services does not perform or refer for abortion, we will give you factual, medically based information about abortion procedures, the side effects to expect, and the potential physical and emotional risks. Schedule a free and confidential appointment to discuss your situation, get the facts about abortion, and learn about your other options.

You May Not Qualify for the Abortion Pill Method

According to the Cleveland Clinic, a medical abortion isn’t a safe option for you if you have the following issues:

  • You are too far along in your pregnancy. The FDA approves the use of the abortion drugs through 10 weeks of pregnancy only.
  • You are allergic to the drugs used (mifepristone and misoprostol)
  • Have a pregnancy outside of your uterus (ectopic pregnancy)
  • Use long-term corticosteroids (drugs that reduce inflammation in your body, such as drugs for asthma, eczema, or an autoimmune disease)
  • You have an intrauterine device (IUD) in place
  • You have a blood-clotting disorder, significant anemia, or chronic adrenal failure
  • You don’t have access to emergency care

There Are Physical Risks

The Mayo Clinic lists the following as possible physical risks of the abortion pill method:

  • An incomplete abortion
  • An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
  • Heavy and prolonged bleeding
  • Infection
  • Fever
  • Digestive problems

Here are the potential risks of a surgical procedure:

  • Perforation of the uterus (with a surgical instrument)
  • Damage to the cervix (which leads to the uterus)
  • Scar tissue on the uterine wall
  • Infection

There Can Be Emotional Consequences, Too

Some women report having mental health problems following their abortions. They have a range of emotions, from sadness, regret, and guilt to anxiety and depression. Here’s what one anonymous Reddit user had to say:

“…mentally I am destroyed. I am grieving my baby so much and I’m trying not to think about it but I can barely sleep at night and I’m crying at least once a day minimum.”

Discussing your physical and mental health with your healthcare provider is crucial.

Get the Facts From Stillwater Life Services First

Stay safe by getting as much information as possible. We can help you learn more about your pregnancy with free pregnancy testing and a limited ultrasound scan. You can conveniently schedule an appointment through our online Contact Form.

Additionally, we can discuss your situation and your many options, including abortion. We’re here to help you. Contact us for assistance today.

Stillwater Life Services does not perform or refer for abortion.

All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.