Does Abortion Hurt?

Does Abortion Hurt?

When it comes to abortion, there’s a lot of conflicting information, and one of the most common questions is: Does it hurt? That’s a valid concern. The truth is, pain levels can vary from person to person based on individual pain tolerance and how the body responds to the procedure.

If you need immediate answers, you can chat anonymously and for free with a nurse at 218-304-9591.

 

Understanding Abortion Types: Chemical vs. Surgical

There are two main types of abortion: chemical (also known as medical) and surgical.¹
A chemical abortion involves taking medications like mifepristone followed by misoprostol to end a pregnancy (the abortion pill). This method is approved by the FDA for use up to 70 days (10 weeks) from the first day of your last menstrual period.²

A surgical abortion is a medical procedure typically performed in a clinic or hospital setting. It’s usually done after 10 weeks of pregnancy and involves removing pregnancy tissue from the uterus.³

How Painful Are Abortions?

So, how much does an abortion hurt? The answer depends on several factors, including the method used and your body's response.

For medical abortions, many women describe symptoms like strong cramping and bleeding, similar to or more intense than a heavy period. Some report moderate discomfort, while others experience significant pain.

With surgical abortions, anesthesia is usually used, so the procedure itself isn’t typically painful. However, cramping and discomfort can occur after the procedure. In general, pain may increase with how far along the pregnancy is.

Everyone's experience is different. Pain levels can vary even between pregnancies for the same person.

Again, the physical pain you feel will mainly vary from person to person and from pregnancy to pregnancy.

 

What are the risks of abortion?

 

As with any medical procedure, abortion carries certain health risks. These may include:

  • Infection
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Incomplete abortion, requiring further medical treatment
  • Injury to nearby organs during a surgical procedure
  • Complications related to anesthesia

In the case of medical abortion, the pills don’t always work. If the pregnancy continues after taking the medication, additional steps may be needed. That’s why it's essential to confirm the pregnancy with an ultrasound before taking the abortion pill—to verify that the pregnancy is in the uterus and not ectopic, which can be life-threatening if untreated.⁴


Emotional Impact of Abortion

Abortion isn’t just a physical experience—it can also bring a range of emotions. How you feel before, during, or after the procedure is deeply personal.

Some women feel immediate relief, while others may struggle with emotions like sadness, guilt, or grief.⁵ There’s no right or wrong way to feel, but it’s important to have support. Talking with a trusted friend, family member, or professional trained in post-abortion care can help.

Is Abortion Legal in Minnesota?

Abortion laws differ depending on where you live. In Minnesota, abortion is currently legal. The abortion pill, however, is only available for pregnancies up to 70 days from the start of your last period.

For up-to-date legal information and personalized support, reach out to one of our care experts for a free, confidential consultation.

 

Post-Abortion Care and Support

After an abortion, it’s important to take care of your health—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Having a support system in place can help you manage recovery and process your emotions.

You don’t have to go through it alone. At Northwoods Pregnancy Center, we offer free post-abortion care, no matter how long ago your abortion occurred.

So, when someone asks, “Do abortions hurt?” the answer involves more than just physical pain. It’s a complex experience that includes emotional factors, medical risks, legal considerations, and the need for follow-up care.

To learn more or talk with someone who understands, reach out anonymously by texting 218-304-9591.

A free and confidential consultation can help confirm your pregnancy, estimate how far along you are, and provide answers to any questions you may have about abortion pills or procedures.

 

Sources:

1. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. "What are the different types of abortion?" nichd.nih.gov 

2. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/information-about-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation

3. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/induced-abortion

4. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. "Facts About Abortion." acog.org; https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/medical-abortion/about/pac-20394687 

5. https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/pregnancy/how-you-may-feel-when-youre-no-longer-expecting/