Know the Facts About Abortion

An unplanned pregnancy can feel disorienting. If you’re sorting through your options, you’ll want to learn all the facts about abortion by addressing a few questions, including how far along you are, your pregnancy options, the types of abortion, and laws in Nebraska.

Keep reading to learn the facts about the different types of abortion, and the risks associated with this procedure.

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How Far Along Am I?

Gestational age (how far along you are in your pregnancy) can be estimated based on the last menstrual period, but an ultrasound is the most exact way to determine it.

An ultrasound will also confirm the viability of the pregnancy and rule out an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy located outside of the uterus). An ectopic can be life-threatening and requires medical intervention, not the abortion pills.1

Call Willow Center for a free ultrasound today at 402-228-6410.

What are the Types of Abortion?

There are two types of abortion—abortion pills (or a medical abortion) and a surgical abortion. Your eligibility for either type depends on state laws and how far along you are in your pregnancy. Next, you need to consider the cost and risks associated with any abortion.

What is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill is also called medical abortion, chemical abortion, RU-486, or at-home abortion. The FDA has approved the abortion pill for up to 10 weeks of pregnancy.2

The abortion pill involves two medications. The first medication, mifepristone, interferes with the pregnancy’s progesterone receptors and prevents the fetus from developing. The second medication, misoprostol, causes the uterus to cramp and expel the fetus.3

What are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pills can cause cramping and bleeding for up to four weeks.3 Complications after taking the first abortion pill (mifepristone) can include prolonged bleeding, an infection, an allergic reaction, or an incomplete abortion, which could require further medical intervention.3 Women should receive follow-up care to evaluate for any complications.

What is a Surgical Abortion?

In a surgical abortion, a provider dilates a woman’s cervix before removing the fetus using a curette to scrape out the uterus, a suction catheter, forceps, or other instruments. The type of procedure depends on the abortion provider’s preference, how far along a woman is in her pregnancy, and the state laws.

What are the Risks of a Surgical Abortion?

Complications from a surgical abortion can include bleeding, infection, and pain. In some cases, the surgical abortion is incomplete, so an additional procedure is required. In rare cases, surgical abortions could perforate the uterus or surrounding organs.4 Multiple surgical abortions could lead to scarring within the uterus which could cause infertility in the future.5

What are the Abortion Laws in Nebraska?

Currently, abortion is illegal in Nebraska after 12 weeks gestation. Exceptions can be made to save the life of the pregnant woman.6

We strongly recommend receiving an ultrasound before an abortion. Click here to find out why.

How Much is an Abortion?

A medical abortion, or abortion pills, can cost between $500 to $950. Surgical abortions can cost between $500 to $1,150 in the first trimester and $570 to $2,300 in the second trimester.7 These costs often include fees for ultrasounds, blood tests, medications, and follow-up appointments.

Get the Facts About Abortion at Willow Center

As you consider what to do next, take one step at a time. Call Willow Center at 402-228-6410 for a free, confidential appointment. Our compassionate staff will provide you with the facts about abortion so that you can make the best decision for you!