If you think that you’re pregnant and it’s not what you planned, you might be researching your abortion options.
It’s essential to understand the types of abortion procedures.
It is also crucial to know how far along you are in your pregnancy. Call 320-253-1962 for a free ultrasound.
This knowledge equips you to make a well-informed decision about your next steps. Keep reading to learn more about the types of abortion.
First-Trimester Abortion Procedures
The first trimester spans from conception (around two weeks after the first day of your last menstrual period) to the end of week 13.
What Is a Medical Abortion?
A medical abortion, commonly known as the abortion pill, uses two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol. It’s FDA-approved for use up to 10 weeks of pregnancy.[1]
What Is Dilation and Curettage (D&C)?
A dilation and curettage (D&C) is a surgical abortion available up to 13 weeks of pregnancy.[2]
Second-Trimester Abortion Procedures
The second trimester is from week 13 to week 27. During this stage, dilation and evacuation (D&E) becomes the standard procedure due to the pregnancy’s advanced development.
What Is Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)?
A dilation and evacuation (D&E) is a surgical abortion most often performed in the second trimester.[3]
Have Questions About Abortion in St Cloud and Waite Park, Minnesota? Get the Facts at Pregnancy Resource Center + Medical Clinic.
If you’re exploring abortion, you don’t have to navigate it alone. The caring team at Pregnancy Resource Center + Medical Clinic provides free, confidential guidance to help you make the best choice for your health and future.
Call us at 320-253-1962 or schedule an appointment online today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Abortion
- How Does Abortion Affect Mental Health?
Everyone experiences abortion differently. The abortion procedures can be difficult for some women, thus exacerbating emotions you may already be experiencing.[4]
- How Does Abortion Affect Relationships?
Abortion can sometimes affect intimate relationships in dating, marriage, friendships, family, and children.[24]
- Which Abortion Should I Choose?
Before choosing an abortion, you should confirm your pregnancy and verify how far along you are (gestational age). Call Pregnancy Resource Center + Medical Clinic at 320-253-1962 for a free pregnancy test and a free limited ultrasound.
Please be aware that Pregnancy Resource Center + Medical Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources
- FDA. (2025, February 11). Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation?sm_guid=NTU1NzgyfDYzMDE1OTM2fC0xfGppbUBha2ZhbWlseS5vcmd8NTY4OTI4MXx8MHwwfDE5OTYwMDk4OHwxMDg2fDB8MHx8NTQ3NzI2fDA1
- Cleveland Clinic. (2024, February 9). Dilation and Curettage (D & C). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/dilation-and-curettage
- Understanding Dilation and Evacuation (D&E). Saint Luke’s Health System. (n.d.). https://www.saintlukeskc.org/health-library/understanding-dilation-and-evacuation-de
- Fergusson DM, Horwood LJ, Boden JM. Abortion and mental health disorders: evidence from a 30-year longitudinal study. British Journal of Psychiatry. 2008;193(6):444-451. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/the-british-journal-of-psychiatry/article/abortion-and-mental-health-disorders-evidence-from-a-30year-longitudinal-study/59A90CBF3A58C58B342CBCFFBBFEBD2E
