What to Expect from an In-Clinic Abortion

An unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming. If you’re looking for an abortion clinic in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, it’s important to know what to expect. This can help you make a fully informed decision.

In this article, we’ll explore:

The different types of in-clinic abortion procedures
The possible risks and side effects
When to seek medical help if you experience complications
What to do before visiting an abortion clinic

Types of In-Clinic Abortion Procedures

The type of surgical abortion you can receive depends on how far along your pregnancy is. The abortion provider will recommend either a suction (vacuum) aspiration or a dilation and evacuation (D&E).

Suction (Vacuum) Aspiration Abortion

A suction (vacuum) aspiration abortion is typically performed up to 13 weeks of pregnancy. Here’s how it works:

Before the procedure, a medication is used to open (dilate) the cervix.
Misoprostol may also be given to soften the cervix.
During the procedure itself, a suction device is used to remove the fetus.

Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)

A dilation and evacuation (D&E) is a surgical abortion most often performed in the second trimester. This procedure is usually performed under anesthesia. It’s more complex than a suction (vacuum) aspiration abortion due to the fetus’s size.

Here’s how it works:

Before the procedure, sponge-like sticks (laminaria) are inserted into the cervix.
These sticks absorb moisture and gradually expand, opening the cervix.
During the procedure itself, a suction device and tools like forceps are used to remove the fetus.

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Side Effects and Risks

Common side effects of surgical abortion include cramping, spotting, and bleeding. These can last up to two weeks, depending on the procedure. One study found that second-trimester abortions can be more painful than expected.[1]

Potential physical risks include:

Uterine Perforation: An instrument may accidentally puncture the uterus, possibly needing surgical repair.[2]
Asherman Syndrome: Scar tissue inside the uterus from repeated procedures can impact future fertility.[3]
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Bacteria introduced during surgery may cause infection in the reproductive tract.[4]

Additionally, some women report experiencing mental health struggles after abortion. Examples include:[5][6]

Depression
Anxiety
Low self-esteem
Substance abuse
Suicidal behaviors

If you’re thinking about suicide, call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 right away.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Care

Complications can happen after an in-clinic abortion. Go to the nearest emergency room if you experience any of the following:

Heavy, excessive bleeding
Persistent fever
Severe or worsening abdominal pain not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
No bleeding within 24 hours of the procedure

What to Do Before Visiting an Abortion Clinic

Before visiting an abortion clinic, it’s crucial to receive an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy viability and gestational age. This information helps you understand your pregnancy options and make the best decision for your health.

Viability

A viable pregnancy indicates that the pregnancy is progressing normally and has the potential to continue to term. During an ultrasound, technicians look for signs like a fetal heartbeat. This usually appears between 5 and 6 weeks of pregnancy.[7]

Getting an ultrasound before an abortion helps check for nonviable pregnancies. This includes miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies, where the embryo grows outside the uterus. These conditions need alternative medical care.

Gestational Age

Gestational age refers to how far along you are in your pregnancy. Doctors measure it from the first day of your last period.

In Iowa, knowing your gestational age is crucial because abortion is illegal in Iowa after cardiac activity can be detected by an ultrasound, typically around 6 weeks of pregnancy.[9]

Exceptions can be made in cases of rape, incest, or when abortion is considered necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman. To qualify for an exception, people must report the rape resulting in pregnancy within 45 days to law enforcement or a public health agency or doctor, and within 140 for cases of incest.[8]

Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center provides free ultrasounds to women who receive positive pregnancy tests at our center. Click the button below to schedule your appointment.

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*Important note: Please be aware that this article is not meant to substitute for medical advice or treatment. The purpose of our limited ultrasound exams is to identify a pregnancy inside the uterus, detect the fetal heartbeat, and estimate how far along you are. If there is no detectable heartbeat, it may indicate a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy is occurring. If we cannot detect a fetal heartbeat during your appointment, we will provide appropriate referrals for follow-up care and treatment.

Considering an In-Clinic Abortion in Cedar Rapids, Iowa? Visit Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center First.

If you’re considering an in-clinic abortion in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center is here to help you make an informed decision. We offer:

Free Services: Pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, STD testing and treatment.
Compassionate Support: A safe space to ask questions and explore your options without pressure.
Personalized Guidance: We are here to answer your questions and help you explore each of your pregnancy options.

Give us a call at (319) 200-2125 or schedule your appointment online today.