Does abortion hurt? When thinking “I want to get an abortion,” it’s natural to wonder about what physical pain might be involved. Because every individual is different, this is a difficult question to answer definitively. The types and intensity of pain vary, based on whether it is a surgical or medication abortion, how far along the pregnancy has progressed, and the individual’s pain threshold or level of tolerance.
If you are in Chicagoland and wondering, “does abortion hurt?,” we invite you to contact us. We offer free consultations, and are here to help process your personal concerns and questions about abortion.
The following is provided as general information. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. When making decisions about your health, you should discuss your abortion risks, options, and questions with your personal medical team. If you are experiencing medical concerns, you should talk with your doctor or dial 911.
For information about surgical abortion and pain, please see our previous article.
A medication abortion utilizing RU486, the “abortion pill,” actually uses two different medications. The first of these, mifepristone, is given at an abortion clinic. A second medication, misoprostol, is taken 24-48 hours after the first. This drug causes women to have cramps and to bleed heavily. The level of pain varies from one individual to another; some women report that the cramping is intense and quite painful, while for others it may not be as severe. The length of time for the cramping and bleeding can vary; for most it can be from a few hours to a few days.
Whether medication abortion hurts is an important question to consider, but you probably have other questions as well. If you are considering whether abortion hurts, abortion pill side effects, or what your abortion alternatives may be – we hope you will contact us at Avenue Women’s Center. We have five locations in the western suburbs of Chicago – Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn / Lombard, Naperville, West Chicago and Wood Dale, Illinois. For over 35 years, Avenue Women’s Center has been serving our community with support, care, and confidentiality. Please let us be there for you. Contact us now.
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.