--- title: About Abortion description: Find reliable answers about abortion options, procedures, costs, and risks. Connect with healthcare professionals for support and guidance anytime. --- [Skip to Content](https://ndwomensclinic.com/about-abortion#main-content) - [Call Us: (262) 725-6977](tel:+12627256977) - [Text 24/7: (262) 300-7796](sms:+12623007796) [![Asset 1](https://ndwomensclinic.com/hubfs/Asset%201.svg)](https://ndwomensclinic.com?hsLang=en) - Show submenu for SERVICES SERVICES - [Abortion Information](https://ndwomensclinic.com/abortion-options) - [Pregnancy Testing](https://ndwomensclinic.com/free-pregnancy-tests) - [Ultrasounds](https://ndwomensclinic.com/free-ultrasound) - [STD Testing](https://ndwomensclinic.com/std-sti-testing) - [Parenting Support Services](https://ndwomensclinic.com/prenatal-parenting-support) - [After Abortion Healing](https://ndwomensclinic.com/after-abortion-recovery) - [Abortion Pill Reversal](https://ndwomensclinic.com/abortion-pill-reversal) - Show submenu for FAQs FAQs - [First Appointment Expectations](https://ndwomensclinic.com/what-to-expect) - [About Abortion](https://ndwomensclinic.com/about-abortion) - [About STDs](https://ndwomensclinic.com/about-stds) - [About Pregnancy](https://ndwomensclinic.com/about-pregnancy) - Show submenu for LOCATIONS LOCATIONS - [Delavan](https://ndwomensclinic.com/delavan) - [Whitewater](https://ndwomensclinic.com/whitewater) - [HELPFUL ADVICE](https://ndwomensclinic.com/helpful-advice) - [ESPAÑOL](https://ndwomensclinic.com/español) [make appointment](https://ndwomensclinic.com/make-appointment?hsLang=en) Show submenu for SERVICES SERVICES Show submenu for FAQs FAQs Show submenu for LOCATIONS LOCATIONS [HELPFUL ADVICE](https://ndwomensclinic.com/helpful-advice) [ESPAÑOL](https://ndwomensclinic.com/español) [make appointment](https://ndwomensclinic.com/make-appointment?hsLang=en) ###### RELIABLE FACTS ON ABORTION # Abortion FAQs You're not the only one wondering. Find answers on abortion options, process, costs, and guidance in one place. > **Facing an Abortion Decision?** Text with a nurse 24/7 at **[(262) 300-7796](sms:+12623007796)** or **[make an appointment](https://ndwomensclinic.com/make-appointment?hsLang=en)**. ## Your Abortion Questions—Answered With Care - What is an abortion? **Abortion is a medical procedure that ends a pregnancy.** It can be done either with prescribed medication or through a surgical intervention, depending on how far along the pregnancy is. Medication abortion involves taking a two-drug regimen to terminate an early pregnancy, while surgical abortion uses techniques like vacuum aspiration or dilation and evacuation. - How does abortion occur? ### How Does Abortion Occur? **Abortion occurs when a pregnancy is ended using medication or surgical procedure.** Medication abortion uses a two-drug regimen—first to block the pregnancy hormone progesterone and then to induce uterine contractions that expel pregnancy tissue, generally within the first ten weeks. Surgical abortion involves opening the cervix and using suction (vacuum aspiration) or instruments (dilation and evacuation) to remove the pregnancy under local or general anesthesia. - Medical abortion v. Surgical abortion? ### Medical Abortion V. Surgical Abortion? **Medical abortion ends a pregnancy with prescribed medications, while surgical abortion uses a brief in-clinic procedure.** A medical abortion is a two-pill regimen of mifepristone and misoprostol that can only be safely taken up to 10 weeks of pregnancy. Surgical abortion involves opening the cervix and using suction (vacuum aspiration) or instruments (dilation and evacuation) to remove the baby. - How long do you bleed after an abortion? ### How Long Do You Bleed After An Abortion? **Bleeding usually lasts one to two weeks**, but could be longer depending on the procedure and length of pregnancy, including  light spotting sometimes continuing for several weeks. After a medication abortion, heavier bleeding and passing small clots tend to occur in the first few days, then gradually taper off; light spotting can persist for up to six weeks. With a surgical abortion, most bleeding clears within about a week, though mild spotting may continue for one to two weeks afterward. - How much does an abortion cost? ### How Much Does An Abortion Cost? **The cost of an abortion varies widely** depending on the procedure and how far along the pregnancy is. - What's in the abortion pill? ### What's In The Abortion Pill? The abortion pill regimen consists of two medications: **mifepristone followed by misoprostol**. Mifepristone works by blocking progesterone, a hormone needed to maintain the uterine lining, causing the pregnancy to detach. Misoprostol is taken 24–48 hours later to induce uterine contractions that expel the pregnancy tissue. The FDA only approves of this procedure during the first ten weeks of pregnancy and it should only be administered under clinical supervision with a follow-up visit to confirm success and address any cramping or bleeding.   Sources: https://www.fda.gov/media/72923/download https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda\_docs/label/2018/019268s051lbl.pdf   - What are the risks of abortion? ### What Are The Risks Of Abortion? Every Medical Procedure Has Risks The specific risks of abortion can vary depending on the type of procedure (medical or surgical), the stage of pregnancy, and your personal health.   ##### **Abortion by Medication (Abortion Pill, up to ~10 weeks)** **Common effects:** Heavy bleeding, cramping, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. **Possible risks:** - Incomplete abortion (retained tissue may require a follow-up procedure) - Excessive bleeding - Infection - Undiagnosed ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy growing outside the uterus, which can be life-threatening if untreated) Some studies also suggest that ending a first pregnancy may reduce the natural protective effect that early full-term pregnancy has on lowering breast cancer risk. ##### **Surgical Abortion (Aspiration or Dilation and Evacuation)** **Common effects:** Cramping, light bleeding, temporary fatigue. **Possible risks:** - Uterine perforation (a small hole in the uterus caused by instruments) - Cervical injury or scarring - Infection - Retained tissue requiring another procedure In rare cases, significant scarring of the uterus (known as Asherman’s Syndrome) can affect future fertility. ##### **General Risks and Long-Term Considerations** **Emotional impact:** Women report a range of emotions afterward—relief, sadness, confusion, or grief. The likelihood of distress tends to be higher if a woman feels pressured into the decision or has a history of anxiety, depression, or trauma. **Serious complications:** Heavy bleeding, sepsis (a severe infection), or death are extremely rare, but can occur in any medical procedure. **Future pregnancies:** Most women can conceive again. However, if Rh incompatibility (also called Rh sensitization) occurs and is left untreated, it can increase the risk of miscarriage or complications in future pregnancies. Rh testing and treatment with Rh(D) immune globulin are recommended when indicated. **Fertility and hormones:** Abortion generally does not cause infertility. However, complications like severe infection or uterine scarring may affect fertility in rare cases. **Breast health:** Carrying a first pregnancy to full term provides a natural level of breast cancer protection. Some studies indicate that interrupting this process early may reduce that protective effect. #### Still Have Questions About Abortion? If you're not finding answers to the questions you have here, our nurses are on standby 24/7/365 to provide answers. Ask Us Anything About Abortion. Seriously! > Text with a nurse 24/7 at **[(262) 300-7796](sms:+12623007796)** or **[make an appointment](https://ndwomensclinic.com/make-appointment?hsLang=en).** #### Support on Your Terms We’re here on your terms—by text, call, or in person at our clinics. We offer free [pregnancy tests](https://ndwomensclinic.com/free-pregnancy-tests?hsLang=en), [ultrasounds](https://ndwomensclinic.com/free-ultrasound?hsLang=en), and [abortion information](https://ndwomensclinic.com/abortion-assessment?hsLang=en).   [Make Appointment](https://ndwomensclinic.com/make-appointment?hsLang=en)   ![text us](https://ndwomensclinic.com/hubfs/text%20us.svg) **Need Answers Now?** We're available to text 24/7 **[(262) 300-7796](sms:+12623007796)** - References ##### **Government and Public Health** **CDC Abortion Surveillance Reports** Website: cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/data\_stats/abortion.htm Provides U.S. abortion statistics, safety trends, and public health data. **FDA: Mifepristone Information** Website: fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy Includes official drug labeling, safety updates, and restrictions. **MedlinePlus: Abortion** Website: medlineplus.gov/abortion.html Plain-language overview from the U.S. National Library of Medicine. **WHO Abortion Care Guideline (2022)** Website: who.int/publications/i/item/9789240039483 Comprehensive, evidence-based global clinical guidance. --- ##### **Professional Medical Organizations** **ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists)** - Patient FAQ: Abortion Care Website: acog.org/womens-health/faqs/induced-abortion - Practice Bulletin: Medication Abortion Website: acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2020/10/medication-abortion-up-to-70-days-of-gestation **RCOG (Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists – UK)** Website: rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-all-patient-information-leaflets/abortion-care/ Patient information leaflets and clinical guidance on abortion care. **NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence – UK)** Website: nice.org.uk/guidance/ng140 Evidence-based UK guidelines on abortion care and follow-up. --- ##### **Evidence-Based Research and Reviews** **Cochrane Library – Abortion Reviews** Website: cochranelibrary.com/topic/abortion Systematic reviews of abortion methods, safety, and outcomes. **PubMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine)** Website: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov Searchable database for peer-reviewed abortion and reproductive health research. **StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf)** Website: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430793/ Comprehensive, medically reviewed reference on abortion procedures and risks. --- ##### **Hospitals and Health Systems** **Mayo Clinic: Abortion** Website: mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/abortion/about/pac-20385195 Overview of procedures, risks, and recovery. **Cleveland Clinic: Abortion Procedures** Website: my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21879-abortion Describes methods, aftercare, and warning signs. **NHS (UK National Health Service): Abortion Overview** Website: nhs.uk/conditions/abortion/ Accessible patient information about methods, timing, and aftercare. --- ##### **Additional Related Medical Topics** **MedlinePlus: Rh Incompatibility** Website: medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001600.htm **ACOG: Rh Factor Testing and Rhogam** Website: acog.org/womens-health/faqs/the-rh-factor-how-it-can-affect-your-pregnancy **National Cancer Institute: Reproductive History and Breast Cancer Risk** Website: cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/hormones/reproductive-history-fact-sheet ![light logo](https://ndwomensclinic.com/hubfs/light%20logo.svg) **Get In Touch** - [Contact Us](https://ndwomensclinic.com/contact) - [For Donors](https://ndguardians.org/) **Delavan Location** 824 E. Geneva St. Delavan, WI 53115 [Get Directions](https://maps.app.goo.gl/GzMA7xyEXFvnBdUs7) **Whitewater Location** 117 S. Second St. Whitewater, WI 53190 [Get Directions](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Dp6uaXxJ5DnMhcVL6) **Here For You** While New Day Women’s Clinic offers information on the different types of abortions, we do not perform or refer for abortions. Medical services are provided under the direction of: Dr. Chad A. Kort, MD Medical Director © 2026 New Day Women's Clinic. All Rights Reserved. - [Privacy Policy](https://ndwomensclinic.com/privacy-policy) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement" : [ { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://ndwomensclinic.com", "name" : "Home", "position" : 1 }, { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://ndwomensclinic.com/abortion-assessment", "name" : "Abortion Information", "position" : 2 }, { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://ndwomensclinic.com/about-abortion", "name" : "FAQs About Abortion", "position" : 3 } ] } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://ndwomensclinic.com/abortion-assessment#procedure", "@type" : "MedicalProcedure", "description" : "Confidential abortion information and options assessment, including education on medication and surgical abortion procedures, their risks, and alternatives. 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In a surgical abortion, the cervix is opened and suction or instruments are used to remove the pregnancy under local or general anesthesia." }, "name" : "How does abortion occur?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "A medical abortion ends a pregnancy with prescribed medications—usually a two-pill regimen of mifepristone followed by misoprostol—which is generally used only in early pregnancy. A surgical abortion is a brief in-clinic procedure in which the cervix is opened and suction or instruments are used to remove the pregnancy from the uterus." }, "name" : "Medical abortion v. Surgical abortion?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Bleeding after an abortion usually lasts about one to two weeks, but it can be longer depending on the type of procedure and how far along the pregnancy was. After a medication abortion, heavier bleeding and small clots are common in the first few days and then taper to light spotting that can last several weeks. After a surgical abortion, most bleeding improves within about a week, though mild spotting may continue for a week or two." }, "name" : "How long do you bleed after an abortion?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "The cost of an abortion varies widely based on the type of procedure, how far along the pregnancy is, the clinic or hospital providing care, and whether insurance is used. New Day Women’s Clinic can provide free pregnancy confirmation, education, and information about abortion procedures and potential costs, but does not perform or refer for abortions." }, "name" : "How much does an abortion cost?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "The abortion pill regimen typically involves two medications: mifepristone followed by misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone needed to maintain the uterine lining, which causes the pregnancy to detach. Misoprostol is taken later to cause uterine contractions that expel the pregnancy tissue. This regimen is generally used only in early pregnancy and should be taken under medical supervision with follow-up care." }, "name" : "What's in the abortion pill?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "All medical procedures carry risks, and the risks of abortion depend on the method used, gestational age, and a person’s overall health. Medication abortion can involve heavy bleeding, cramping, nausea, and the possibility of incomplete abortion, excessive bleeding, infection, or an undiagnosed ectopic pregnancy. Surgical abortion can involve cramping, bleeding, and, more rarely, complications such as uterine perforation, cervical injury, infection, or retained tissue requiring another procedure. 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