What type of abortion is right for you: medical pill vs procedure?

Choosing an abortion method can feel overwhelming, but knowing your options can make the process easier. The two main types of abortion are medication abortion (the abortion pill) and procedural abortion (an in-clinic procedure). Each method has pros and cons depending on how far along you are, your health, and personal preferences.

This guide will explain how both options work, their effectiveness at ending a pregnancy, and what to expect so you can make the best choice for you. If you’re considering abortion pills, Hey Jane provides safe, at-home treatment for pregnancies up to 10 weeks, with expert clinical support from the comfort and convenience of your phone. See if you’re eligible for care.

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What is an abortion?

An abortion is a medical process that ends a pregnancy. It can be done using pills (medication abortion) or with a procedure done in a clinic (procedural abortion). Though sometimes called “surgical” abortion, these procedures don’t involve cutting. Instead, they use suction to remove pregnancy tissue through the vaginal canal.

For pregnancies up to 11 weeks, medication abortion is 98% effective and can be done at home. In fact, some providers now offer it up to 13 weeks based on new research. After this, an in-clinic abortion is typically needed.

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Abortion pills vs procedures

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If you’re up to 10 weeks pregnant, Hey Jane offers discreet, FDA-approved abortion pills delivered to your home. You can chat with a provider in one business day via text, phone, or video—all from home—after submitting our online intake form. 

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How to decide what abortion option is right for you

• Privacy – Want to avoid a clinic? Consider the abortion pill.
• Speed – Want the soonest appointment? Abortion pills from a virtual clinic might be quicker. Want to complete treatment in one visit? A procedure is faster. 
• Comfort – Prefer being at home? Medication abortion may be better. Looking for more pain relief options? An in-clinic procedure can offer local anesthesia and sedation.
• Location – Live far from a clinic? The abortion pill via mail could be more convenient.
• Weeks – Less than 11 weeks pregnant? The abortion pill may be an option.
• Medical needs – Certain conditions make one option safer than the other.

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Medication abortion pill

A medication abortion involves taking two FDA-approved pills: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, to stop the pregnancy from growing. Misoprostol is taken up to 48 hours after mifepristone and causes the uterus (or womb) to contract. This leads to cramping and bleeding to empty the contents of the uterus, thus ending the pregnancy. Check out our guide to learn more about how abortion pills work and what to expect.

Who should avoid medication abortion?

A medication abortion may not be safe if you:

• Are more than 11 weeks pregnant
• Have an IUD (it should be removed before an abortion)
• Take long-term steroids (e.g., prednisone, prednisolone, hydrocortisone, etc.) for a long time as you should avoid mifepristone (however, you can have a misoprostol-only abortion)
• Have anemia, adrenal failure, or blood clot disorders
• Have an ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the uterus)
• Don’t have access to emergency medical care if needed
• Are allergic to abortion pill ingredients

As you prepare for an abortion, make sure you notify your health care provider of any underlying medical conditions, current medications, and allergies so they can help you make the safest choice for your health.

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Surgical abortion procedure

A procedural abortion, also called a suction aspiration abortion, is a quick, safe in-clinic procedure that removes pregnancy tissue using gentle suction.

During this procedure, a licensed provider numbs the cervix and inserts a small tube into the uterus to gently remove pregnancy tissue. You may experience some mild cramping during and after the procedure. Once the procedure is done, you’ll rest in a recovery area for 30 minutes to an hour before going home.

Most people can return to their normal day-to-day activities within a day or two after a surgical procedure abortion, although some may experience light bleeding for a week or two.

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Why get an in-clinic abortion?

A procedural abortion may be the right choice if you:

• Are more than 11 weeks pregnant
• Have certain health conditions or take certain medications that make a medication abortion less safe
• Don’t want to do an at-home abortion
• Want to leave that same day knowing you are not pregnant, vs. waiting for pregnancy symptoms to get better and take an at-home test a few weeks after a medication abortion

Simply put, a procedural abortion is a safe, highly effective treatment that allows you to complete the process quickly with medical support.

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Both medication abortion and procedural abortion are safe and effective options for ending a pregnancy. The best treatment will ultimately depend on your health and personal preferences. If you’re unsure which method to go with, please talk to your health care provider. 

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