Does Abortion Hurt?

Does Abortion Hurt?

If you're considering abortion, you're probably coming across a lot of mixed messages—and one of the biggest questions is: Does it hurt? It's a valid concern, and the honest answer is: it depends. Everyone’s body reacts differently, and your personal pain tolerance can play a big role. Need support now? Text with a nurse, anonymously and for free, at 330-915-6520.

 

Understanding Abortion Types: Chemical vs. Surgical

 

There are two primary ways an abortion is done: medical and surgical.¹

  • Medical abortions (also called chemical abortions) use two medications—mifepristone followed by misoprostol—to end a pregnancy. The FDA currently approves this method up to 70 days (10 weeks) from the first day of your last period.²

  • Surgical abortions are procedures performed in a medical facility, usually after 10 weeks, where the pregnancy is physically removed from the uterus.³

How Painful Are Abortions?


So, do abortions hurt?  Well, the answer isn't that simple. The level of discomfort can really vary from person to person.

  • During a medical abortion, many people report strong cramping and heavy bleeding, while others compare it to a really bad period. Nausea, chills, and fatigue can also happen during the process.

  • A surgical abortion is typically done under local or general anesthesia, so you may not feel much during the procedure. Afterward, you might experience cramping, soreness, or spotting.

As a general rule, the further along the pregnancy, the more discomfort you may experience. But how much pain you feel can still differ from one person to another—even from one pregnancy to another.

 

What are the risks of abortion?

All medical procedures come with possible side effects, and abortion is no different.

Some risks include:

  • Infection

  • Heavy or prolonged bleeding

  • Incomplete abortion, which might require follow-up care

  • Injury to nearby organs (with surgical abortion in rare cases)

There are also risks tied to anesthesia, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

With medical abortions, there's also a chance the process won't work completely, meaning you may still be pregnant. That’s why getting an ultrasound beforehand is so important—it helps confirm that the pregnancy is located in the uterus and not ectopic, which can be life-threatening if not treated.⁴

Emotional Impact of Abortion

Abortion is more than a physical experience—it can come with emotional effects, too.

Some people feel relief, while others may experience sadness, regret, or confusion afterward.⁵ It’s totally normal to have mixed emotions, and there’s no “right” way to feel. What’s most important is knowing that support is available—whether from loved ones or trained professionals.

 

Is Abortion Legal in Ohio?


Abortion laws vary from state to state, and Ohio has its own set of regulations.

In Ohio, abortion is legal up to 22 weeks of pregnancy (measured from the first day of your last period). After that point, abortion is only allowed if the pregnancy threatens the life or serious health of the woman.¹

These laws do not apply to emergency care for miscarriages or ectopic pregnancies. And importantly, you cannot be prosecuted for seeking or having an abortion.

Still Have Questions?

The question “Do abortions hurt?” goes beyond just physical pain—it’s about the entire experience: your health, your rights, your feelings, and your future. If you're facing a pregnancy decision and want clarity, we’re here for you.

Text 330-915-6520 to chat anonymously with a nurse. We’ll help you confirm your pregnancy, understand how far along you are, and answer your questions about abortion pills, procedures, or anything else you're unsure about.

You don’t have to figure this out alone.

 
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/