One of the most common questions women who are considering ending their pregnancy have is “is abortion painful?” The fact is that abortion feels different for everyone.

For some the process causes just mild discomfort while for others it’s much more intense. A lot of this depends on the type of abortion and how far along the pregnancy is.

What Does Abortion Feel Like?

There are two main types of abortion: medication abortion and in-clinic procedures. Each comes with its own side effects.

The abortion pill often feels very similar to a heavy period. After taking the second medication, cramping usually starts within a few hours.

Most women experience strong menstrual cramps along with bleeding that can last for days, sometimes weeks.

In-clinic surgical abortions like a D&C or a D&E are quicker. Depending on the procedure that’s used, you may experience cramping during and after. The good news is that appointments are quick and there are many pain management options available.

Is Abortion Painful?

Pain is subjective. Some women report only mild discomfort while others experience very intense cramping. The good news is that the most intense part usually doesn’t last very long.

Your personal pain tolerance, the type of abortion that’s performed, and gestational age can all influence how painful an abortion is.

Your emotional state also plays a role. Feeling nervous or tense can make physical discomfort even stronger.

Most side effects are effectively managed with a combination of over-the-counter pain relievers, heating pads, and rest.

Compassionate Abortion Care Is Available

The fear of “is abortion painful?” along with the emotional rollercoaster that comes with this decision can make it hard to take the first step towards getting the reproductive care you need.

If you have questions or concerns about how an abortion feels and how to best manage discomfort, the team at Metropolitan Medical Associates is here to provide guidance.

Call our office at 201-429-9748 today to speak with a member of our staff or schedule your appointment below: