Will My Abortion Hurt?
There’s a lot of misinformation about abortion, leaving many women wondering, "Does it hurt?" It’s a valid question, and having accurate information is important. The truth is, the experience differs for everyone—it depends on your pain tolerance and how your body reacts to the procedure. Need answers now? Chat anonymously with a nurse for free at (386) 384-8088.
Understanding Abortion Types: Chemical vs. Surgical
It's important to recognize that there are two main types of abortion: chemical and surgical.1
Chemical abortions (sometimes referred to as medical abortions) use medications, like mifepristone and misoprostol, commonly known as the abortion pill, to end a pregnancy. The FDA has approved this method up to 70 days after the first day of your last period.2 Surgical abortions involve a medical procedure to remove pregnancy tissue, typically performed after the first ten weeks.3
How Painful Are Abortions?
So, do abortions hurt? The answer isn’t straightforward. For medical abortions, the experience can vary. Some women describe cramping and discomfort similar to a heavy period, while others may have more intense pain.
Surgical abortions, however, are done under anesthesia, so the procedure itself isn’t painful. Yet, some women may experience cramping and discomfort afterward. Generally, the later the pregnancy, the more pain you might feel.
The level of physical pain you experience will largely depend on your body and the specifics of your pregnancy.
What are the risks of abortion?
Like any medical procedure, abortion comes with potential risks. These can include infection, excessive bleeding, and, in rare cases, complications that may require additional medical attention. With surgical abortions, there’s a possibility of an incomplete abortion, which could require further procedures or accidental injury to nearby organs, especially in the later stages of pregnancy. It's also important to remember that any procedure involving anesthesia carries inherent risks.
For medical abortions, also known as the abortion pill, the process isn’t always 100% effective, and it’s possible to remain pregnant. If you are considering a medical abortion, it's crucial to confirm your pregnancy with an ultrasound. Taking the abortion pill when you're not actually pregnant or if you have an ectopic pregnancy can be life-threatening.4
Emotional Impact of Abortion
The emotional experience of abortion can vary widely, and it's normal to have a range of feelings before, during, and after the procedure.
Every woman’s journey is different, and there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to feel. While some may feel relief, others might experience sadness, loss, or guilt.5 It may be helpful to seek support from trusted friends, family, or a post-abortion health professional.
Is Abortion Legal in Florida?
Abortion laws vary widely by location, with some places allowing it and others heavily restricting or banning it.
In Florida, abortion—including medical abortion via the abortion pill—is legal up to six weeks of pregnancy. The state’s six-week abortion ban allows exceptions for medical emergencies, specific conditions like ectopic pregnancies, cases of rape, incest, and human trafficking (with documentation), and fatal fetal abnormalities before the third trimester.
This law does not affect care for an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage. A woman who obtains an abortion cannot be held criminally or civilly liable. Contact one of our care experts for anonymous support and more information about the laws in your area.
Post-Abortion Care and Support
After an abortion, it’s important to take care of yourself both physically and emotionally. Finding support from a community that understands can help ease any discomfort and provide emotional relief.
You don’t have to go through this alone—there are resources to help. At Alpha Women's Center, we offer free post-abortion care, no matter when the abortion took place.
So, when asking, "Do abortions hurt?" it’s about more than just physical pain—it encompasses the entire experience, including emotional well-being, legal concerns, risks, and aftercare.
Feel free to reach out anonymously to (386) 384-8088 to speak with one of our experts who can provide you with the facts you need to make an informed decision.
A free, confidential consultation will help you confirm your pregnancy, estimate its progression, and answer 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/