--- title: About Abortion description: Find reliable information on abortion options, costs, and procedures. Get your questions answered and connect with a healthcare provider. --- [Skip to Content](https://www.charisclinic.org/about-abortion#main-content) - [Text: (385) 483-3227](sms:+13854833227) - [Call: (801) 363-5433](tel:+18013635433) - [Español: (801) 935-4300](tel:+18019354300) [![logo\_#f8f8f8.png](https://www.charisclinic.org/hubfs/logo_%23f8f8f8.png.webp)](https://www.charisclinic.org?hsLang=en) - [Home](https://www.charisclinic.org) - Show submenu for FAQs FAQs - [First Appointment Expectations?](https://www.charisclinic.org/what-to-expect) - [About Pregnancy](https://www.charisclinic.org/about-pregnancy) - [About Abortion](https://www.charisclinic.org/about-abortion) - [About STD's/STI's](https://www.charisclinic.org/about-sti) - Show submenu for Services Services - [Text With Our Nurses](https://www.charisclinic.org/24/7-nurse-chat) - [Pregnancy Testing](https://www.charisclinic.org/free-pregnancy-tests) - [Ultrasounds](https://www.charisclinic.org/free-ultrasound) - [STD Testing](https://www.charisclinic.org/std-sti-testing) - [Pre-Abortion Evaluation](https://www.charisclinic.org/pre-abortion-eval) - [Pregnancy Options Consulting](https://www.charisclinic.org/options-consultation) - [Abortion Recovery](https://www.charisclinic.org/after-abortion-recovery) - [Pregnancy & Parenting Support](https://www.charisclinic.org/prenatal-parenting-support) - [Support for Men](https://www.charisclinic.org/support-for-men) - Show submenu for Resources Resources - [Statewide](https://www.charisclinic.org/utah-resources) - [Salt Lake County](https://www.charisclinic.org/slc-resources) - [Utah County](https://www.charisclinic.org/uc-resources) - [Español](https://www.charisclinic.org/español) - [Helpful Advice](https://www.charisclinic.org/helpful-advice) - [Patient Portal](https://www.charisclinic.org/patient-portal) [Request Appointment](https://www.charisclinic.org/request-appointment?hsLang=en) [Home](https://www.charisclinic.org) Show submenu for FAQs FAQs [First Appointment Expectations?](https://www.charisclinic.org/what-to-expect) [About Pregnancy](https://www.charisclinic.org/about-pregnancy) [About Abortion](https://www.charisclinic.org/about-abortion) [About STD's/STI's](https://www.charisclinic.org/about-sti) Show submenu for Services Services [Text With Our Nurses](https://www.charisclinic.org/24/7-nurse-chat) [Pregnancy Testing](https://www.charisclinic.org/free-pregnancy-tests) [Ultrasounds](https://www.charisclinic.org/free-ultrasound) [STD Testing](https://www.charisclinic.org/std-sti-testing) [Pre-Abortion Evaluation](https://www.charisclinic.org/pre-abortion-eval) [Pregnancy Options Consulting](https://www.charisclinic.org/options-consultation) [Abortion Recovery](https://www.charisclinic.org/after-abortion-recovery) [Pregnancy & Parenting Support](https://www.charisclinic.org/prenatal-parenting-support) [Support for Men](https://www.charisclinic.org/support-for-men) Show submenu for Resources Resources [Statewide](https://www.charisclinic.org/utah-resources) [Salt Lake County](https://www.charisclinic.org/slc-resources) [Utah County](https://www.charisclinic.org/uc-resources) [Español](https://www.charisclinic.org/español) [Helpful Advice](https://www.charisclinic.org/helpful-advice) [Patient Portal](https://www.charisclinic.org/patient-portal) [Request Appointment](https://www.charisclinic.org/request-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 us at [(385) 483-3227](sms:+13854833227) or [request an appointment](https://www.charisclinic.org/request-appointment?hsLang=en). ## Your Abortion Questions—Answered With Care - What is an abortion? ### What Is An Abortion? Abortion is a medical procedure that ends a pregnancy. Depending on gestational age, it may be done with medication or a surgical method. Medication abortion uses two drugs. Surgical procedures include vacuum aspiration or dilation and evacuation. At Charis Pregnancy Clinic, we provide information and support and do not offer or refer for abortions. - How does abortion occur? ### How Does Abortion Occur? Abortion ends a pregnancy through medication or a surgical procedure. Medication abortion usually uses two drugs. The first blocks progesterone, the hormone that supports pregnancy. The second causes the uterus to contract and pass pregnancy tissue, often in the first ten weeks. Surgical abortion opens the cervix and uses suction or instruments to remove the pregnancy. Charis Pregnancy Clinic does not offer or refer for abortions. - Medical abortion v. surgical abortion? ### Medical Abortion V. Surgical Abortion? Abortion may be completed with medication or with an in-clinic procedure. Medication abortion uses two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol, and is approved for up to 10 weeks of pregnancy. Surgical abortion opens the cervix and removes the pregnancy with suction or instruments. Charis Pregnancy Clinic provides information and support but does not offer or refer for abortions. - How long do you bleed after an abortion? ### How Long Do You Bleed After An Abortion? Bleeding usually lasts one to two weeks and can go longer based on the procedure and how far along the pregnancy is. Spotting may continue for several weeks. After a medication abortion, heavier bleeding and clots are common at first. Then it often shifts to lighter spotting that can last up to six weeks. After a surgical abortion, bleeding often slows within a week, with light spotting that may continue for another week or two.   Source: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21899-medical-abortion - How much does an abortion cost? ### How Much Does An Abortion Cost? Abortion costs vary. Price depends on the method, how far the pregnancy has progressed, and insurance coverage. Some pay a small copay. Others face higher costs if coverage is limited or the pregnancy is later. This center provides information and support and does not offer or refer for abortions. - What's in the abortion pill? ### What's In The Abortion Pill? The abortion pill involves two medicines: mifepristone followed by misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, the hormone that maintains the uterine lining, so the pregnancy detaches. A day or two later, misoprostol causes uterine contractions to pass the tissue. This method is FDA approved for up to 10 weeks of pregnancy and should be overseen by a healthcare provider with follow-up to confirm completion and manage bleeding or cramping. - What are the risks of abortion? ### What Are The Risks Of Abortion? Abortion carries risks like any medical procedure. Risks vary by method, how far the pregnancy is, and personal health. **Medication abortion (pill, up to about 10 weeks):** Common effects include bleeding, cramping, and nausea. Rare risks include incomplete abortion, heavy bleeding, infection, or a missed ectopic pregnancy. **Surgical abortion (aspiration or dilation and evacuation):** Typical effects are cramping and light bleeding. Rare risks include cervical injury, infection, uterine perforation, or scarring that could affect future fertility. **Overall risks:** Emotional responses differ from person to person, from relief to sadness. Distress is more likely if there are past mental health concerns. Severe problems like sepsis or life-threatening bleeding are very rare. Fertility is usually not affected unless uncommon complications cause significant scarring. A healthcare provider can explain risks and arrange follow-up care. Charis Pregnancy Clinic provides information and support and does not offer or refer for abortions.   Sources: https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2020/10/medication-abortion-up-to-70-days-of-gestation https://www.rcog.org.uk/media/nwcjrf0o/abortion-guideline\_web\_1.pdf - Is abortion legal in Utah? ### Is abortion legal in Utah? Abortion is currently legal in Utah up to 18 weeks of pregnancy. - Can I be forced to have an abortion? ### Can I be forced to have an abortion? No, it is illegal for anyone to force you into ending your pregnancy. If you are concerned about being pressured into having an abortion, please contact [The Justice Foundation](https://thejusticefoundation.org/cafa/) at **(210) 614-7157.** - Where can I find post-abortion support? ### Where can I find post-abortion support? Yes! Charis Pregnancy Clinic offers a safe, non-judgmental space to process a past abortion. It is common for women to have conflicted feelings after an abortion and find it helpful to talk about what they experienced with others who have walked this journey ahead of them. Visit our [Abortion Recovery](https://www.charisclinic.org/after-abortion-recovery?hsLang=en) page for more information. - The Abortion Pill - Early Surgical Abortion (D&C) - Labor Induction - Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) ### The Abortion Pill #### Up to 10 weeks after last menstrual period. Up to a 3 day process. This option includes two drugs and is only approved for use in pregnant women up to the 70th day after their last period. The first pill(s) is Mifepristone, which blocks the effect of the body's natural hormone progesterone, a key pregnancy hormone, in turn weakening the embryo's connection to blood and nutrients. 24-48 hours later, the second pill(s), Misoprostol, is taken to cause uterine cramping. These contractions expel the embryo and empty the uterus through heavy bleeding within a few hours. A follow-up visit 7-14 days later is critical to evaluate for a complete abortion (that the uterus is empty) and to assess for any complications. This chemical abortion process will not work in the case of an ectopic pregnancy. This is a potentially life-threatening condition in which the embryo implants outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. If not diagnosed early, the tube may burst, causing internal bleeding and, in some cases, the death of the woman. We provide ultrasounds to confirm location and gestational age, call us to schedule an appointment, so you have this necessary information about your health and options. Some women regret their abortion after starting this process. **[Click Here](https://abortionpillreversal.com/)** to talk to a healthcare provider near you to discuss options.   ##### Common side effects and risks: - Abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, dizziness, headaches, fever and chills, diarrhea, vomiting, and fatigue. - Bleeding for 9-16 days is common and up to 8% of women experience bleeding for 30 days or more. - It is possible to see the expelled embryo or fetus and need to dispose of it. - Severe or prolonged bleeding, infection, failed or incomplete abortion requiring additional doses of the abortion pill or a D&C, and death. > **Note:** Along with the physical risks of abortion, there are also mental and emotional risks.   ### Early Surgical Abortion (D&C) #### Up to 14 weeks after last menstrual period. Typically done in 1 day. This is the most common surgical abortion procedure, used throughout the first trimester (also called a Dilation and Curettage (D&C) or Vacuum Aspiration). Sometimes the cervix is softened and stretched with laminaria or a vaginal medication ahead of time. During the procedure, the doctor inserts a speculum and may use dilating rods depending on the size of the baby. Opening the cervix may be painful, so local anesthesia is typically injected into the cervix to numb the area. After the cervix is stretched open, the doctor inserts a plastic tube through the cervix into the uterus and attaches a vacuum device. The suction pulls the embryo and placenta out of the uterus, or a larger baby may be pulled apart and out of the uterus. The doctor may also use a loop-shaped surgical instrument called a curette to scrape any remaining fetal parts and/or other tissue out of the uterus. They will then assess that all parts have been removed to prevent infection or heavy bleeding. ##### Risks include: - Bleeding - Infection of the uterus - Pain - Incomplete abortion - Uterine perforation - Damage to the cervix (which can cause complications in future pregnancies) > **Note:** Along with the physical risks of abortion, there are also mental and emotional risks.   ### Labor Induction #### During the second and third trimester of pregnancy, usually after 20 weeks. Typically takes 3 days. During the first two days, the cervix is stretched open using thin rods made of seaweed (laminaria), or mifepristone is given. A lethal injection is given into the uterus or directly into the baby to stop the baby's heart. Once the baby is confirmed deceased, medication is given to the woman to start labor. This can include misoprostol and Pitocin. Pain medication can be given orally or intravenously. After delivery of the deceased baby and the placenta, sometimes a curette is also used to ensure placental tissue is fully removed. Typically longer monitoring is required, including monitoring overnight in a hospital. ##### Risks include: - Potential delivery of a live baby - Hemorrhage - Uterine rupture - Damage to the cervix (which can cause complications in future pregnancies) - Infection - Retained placenta - Abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea - Headaches, dizziness, fever and chills - Death > **Note:** Along with the physical risks of abortion, there are also mental and emotional risks.       #### Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) #### During the second and third trimester of pregnancy. Typically takes 2-3 days. In this procedure, the cervix must be opened wider than in a first trimester abortion. This is done by inserting numerous thin rods made of seaweed (laminaria) a day or two before the abortion. If the fetus is 23 weeks or more, lethal injections may be given to stop the baby's heart. At this point in pregnancy, the fetus is too large to be broken up by suction alone and will not pass through the suction tubing. Once the cervix is stretched open, the doctor uses forceps to break the body of the fetus into smaller pieces so that it can be removed. A curette is also used to scrape out the contents of the uterus, removing any remaining fetal parts and/or tissue. ##### Risks include: - Incomplete abortion - Infection of the uterus - Bleeding - Pain - Uterine perforation - Organ damage - Damage to the cervix (which can cause complications in future pregnancies) - Death (this risk increases for later gestational ages) > **Note:** Along with the physical risks of abortion, there are also mental and emotional risks.   #### Still Have Questions About Abortion? We get it. Navigating your options can be a lot. Ask Us Anything About Abortion. Seriously! > Text with us at [(385) 483-3227](sms:+13854833227) or [request an appointment](https://www.charisclinic.org/request-appointment?hsLang=en). #### A Pressure-Free Space for Help Help is available on your terms. We provide services like [pregnancy tests](https://www.charisclinic.org/free-pregnancy-tests?hsLang=en), [ultrasounds](https://www.charisclinic.org/free-ultrasound?hsLang=en), [pre-abortion evaluations](https://www.charisclinic.org/pre-abortion-eval?hsLang=en), [options consulting](https://www.charisclinic.org/options-consultation?hsLang=en), and [STD/STI testing](https://www.charisclinic.org/std-sti-testing?hsLang=en) at no cost to you.   [Request Appointment](https://www.charisclinic.org/request-appointment?hsLang=en) ![text](https://www.charisclinic.org/hubfs/text.svg) **Need To Chat?** We're available to text at: [(385) 483-3227](sms:+13854833227) [![footer logo](https://www.charisclinic.org/hubfs/footer%20logo.svg)](https://www.charisclinic.org?hsLang=en) **Get In Touch** - [Contact Us](https://www.charisclinic.org/contact) - [Support Our Work](https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/charis-pregnancy-clinic/support-our-work) - [Salt Lake City Clinic](https://www.charisclinic.org/salt-lake) - [American Fork Clinic](https://www.charisclinic.org/american-fork) - [Text | (385) 483-3227](sms:+13854833227) - [Español | (801) 935-4300](tel:+18019354300) **Salt Lake City Clinic** 644 South 900 East Salt Lake City, UT 84102 [Get Directions](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Charis+Pregnancy+Clinic+@+Salt+Lake+City/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0xd112b6699e872f59?sa=X&ved=1t:2428&ictx=111) Monday: 12-8pm Tuesday: 9-5pm Wednesday: 9-5pm Thursday: 9-5pm Friday 9-5pm **American Fork Clinic** 364 E State St American Fork, UT 84003 [Get Directions](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Charis+Pregnancy+Clinic+@+American+Fork/@40.3742245,-111.7920994,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x874d81633b7b88ab:0x9779a1ea3601bd02!8m2!3d40.3742245!4d-111.7895191!16s%2Fg%2F11fkttf33s?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) Tuesday: 9:30-2pm Wednesday: 9-1:30pm Thursday: 4-8pm **Here For You** Charis Pregnancy Clinic provides information regarding abortion procedures and risks, however, we do not provide abortions or referrals to obtain them.   \*Image Disclaimer: Some images feature models or have been digitally enhanced. They're simply here to help tell our story and don't represent anyone's personal or medical experience. © 2026 Charis Pregnancy Clinic. All Rights Reserved. - [Privacy Policy](https://www.charisclinic.org/privacy-policy) - [Nurse Text Privacy Policy](https://www.charisclinic.org/nurse-privacy-policy) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement" : [ { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://www.charisclinic.org", "name" : "Home", "position" : 1 }, { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://www.charisclinic.org/about-abortion", "name" : "Abortion FAQs", "position" : 2 } ] } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "FAQPage", "about" : { "@type" : "MedicalProcedure", "description" : "Accurate, confidential information about abortion procedures, risks, and alternatives.", "name" : "Abortion Information", "url" : "https://www.charisclinic.org/about-abortion" }, "inLanguage" : "en", "mainEntity" : [ { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Abortion is a medical procedure that ends a pregnancy with medication or a surgical method. 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Charis provides information only." }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://www.charisclinic.org/about-abortion", "name" : "Medical vs. surgical abortion—what’s the difference?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Bleeding commonly lasts 1–2 weeks. After medication abortion, heavier bleeding may occur at first, then spotting for several weeks; after surgical abortion, bleeding often slows within a week." }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://www.charisclinic.org/about-abortion", "name" : "How long do you bleed after an abortion?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Costs vary by method, gestational age, and insurance. Charis offers information and support and does not provide or refer for abortions." }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://www.charisclinic.org/about-abortion", "name" : "How much does an abortion cost?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "The abortion pill regimen uses mifepristone to block progesterone, followed by misoprostol to cause uterine contractions. Follow-up with a healthcare provider is recommended." }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://www.charisclinic.org/about-abortion", "name" : "What’s in the abortion pill?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Common effects include cramping, bleeding, and nausea. Rare risks include infection, heavy bleeding, incomplete abortion, cervical injury, or uterine perforation. Discuss personal risks with a clinician." }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://www.charisclinic.org/about-abortion", "name" : "What are the risks of abortion?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Abortion laws can change. Check official state resources or a qualified legal/medical source for current information." }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://www.charisclinic.org/about-abortion", "name" : "Is abortion legal in Utah?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "No. Coercion is illegal. If you feel pressured, contact The Justice Foundation (210-614-7157) for help." }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://www.charisclinic.org/about-abortion", "name" : "Can I be forced to have an abortion?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Charis offers confidential after-abortion recovery support. See https://www.charisclinic.org/after-abortion-recovery for more information." }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://www.charisclinic.org/about-abortion", "name" : "Where can I find post-abortion support?" } ], "name" : "Abortion FAQs", "url" : "https://www.charisclinic.org/about-abortion" } ```