Does Abortion Hurt?

Does Abortion Hurt?

When it comes to abortion, there’s a lot of information online—and not all of it is clear or accurate. It makes sense that many young women wonder, “Do abortions hurt?” It’s an important question, and the truth is that the experience varies from person to person. Your pain tolerance, how far along you are, and how your body responds all play a role.

Need answers now? Text a Nurse Advocate at (802) 883-3636 for support free of charge.



Understanding Abortion Types: Medical vs. Surgical

There are two primary types of abortion: medical and surgical.¹

Medical abortion—often called the abortion pill—involves two medications, mifepristone and misoprostol. These medications work together to end a pregnancy and are FDA-approved for use up to 70 days (10 weeks) from the first day of your last menstrual period.²

Surgical abortion is a procedure performed by a medical provider to remove the pregnancy from the uterus.³ This is typically done in a clinic and is more common after ten weeks of pregnancy.

 

How Painful Are Abortions?

So, do abortions hurt? There isn’t one universal answer.

Medical abortions often involve:

  • Cramping

  • Bleeding

  • Discomfort that can range from mild to intense

Some women say it feels similar to a heavy period, while others describe the cramping as stronger and more painful.

Surgical abortions, on the other hand, are performed under anesthesia, so the procedure itself is usually not painful. However, some cramping and discomfort afterward is normal.

A general guideline: the farther along the pregnancy is, the more discomfort you may experience. Everybody—and every pregnancy—is different, so pain levels can vary widely.

 

What are the risks of abortion?

Like any medical procedure, abortion carries risks. These may include:

  • Infection

  • Excessive or prolonged bleeding

  • Incomplete abortion requiring additional treatment

  • Injury to surrounding organs (more common in later procedures)

Anesthesia also comes with its own risks.

Medical abortions are not always fully effective, and you may remain pregnant afterward. This is why confirming your pregnancy through a lab-grade test and ultrasound is essential before taking the abortion pill.

Taking the abortion pill when you are not pregnant—or if the pregnancy is ectopic—can be extremely dangerous.⁴

 

Emotional Impact of Abortion

Abortion is not just a physical experience—it can be an emotional one as well.

Some women feel relief afterward, while others experience sadness, grief, or guilt. Every emotional response is valid.⁵ There is no “right” way to feel, and your experience is uniquely your own.

Talking with someone you trust—whether a friend, family member, or trained support person—can help you work through those emotions in a healthy way.

 

Post-Abortion Care and Support

After an abortion, your emotional and physical well-being matter. Pain, bleeding, or emotional heaviness can feel overwhelming, and having a place to turn for support makes a meaningful difference.

You are not alone. The Women’s Center offers post-abortion care free of charge, regardless of when the abortion occurred. Our environment is warm, non-judgmental, and focused on listening to your needs.

So, the question “Do abortions hurt?” isn’t just about physical pain—it’s about the full experience: emotional, physical, legal, and personal.

To speak with a Nurse Advocate, text (802) 883-3636. We’re here to help you feel informed, supported, and empowered in whatever you’re facing.

A confidential consultation free of charge can help you confirm your pregnancy, understand your options, and ask 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/
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