Table 6 Early Abortion methods
From: Unintended pregnancy: a framework for prevention and options for midlife women in the US
| Medication abortion | Aspiration abortion | |
|---|---|---|
| Efficacy | 95–98% | 99% |
| Gestational age eligibility | Can use up to 10 weeks’ gestation | Up to 14–15 weeks’ gestation |
| Typical number of visits to abortion provider | 2 (one to initiate process; one to confirm completion of abortion) | Typically 1–2; one for procedure; follow up can be with abortion provider or primary care provider |
| Advantages |
• Does not require invasive procedure • Some women feel it is more “natural” • Offers more privacy as abortion occurs at home (or other chosen place) • May be accessible in remote/less-densely populated areas |
• Complete within a short, defined period of time (several minutes) • Trained health personnel are present throughout procedure • Bleeding is typically light after the procedure |
| Disadvantages |
• Process can take hours to complete • Failure of method requires aspiration of uterus • Cramping can be strong, and last longer than with aspiration abortion • Heavy bleeding is common |
• Requires instrumentation of uterus • Providers generally located in areas with higher density populations • Pain medication and anesthesia can cause side effects |