The first few weeks of pregnancy can be a confusing time. When women begin to experience light spotting and cramping, they might worry about a miscarriage. Even if your pregnancy is unexpected, you’ll want to know the difference between miscarriage and abortion. Keep reading to learn more.

What You Should Know About Your Pregnancy:

1. How far along are you?  

It’s important to know how far along you are in your pregnancy. Although you can guess based on your last menstrual period, an ultrasound is the most accurate way to know how far along you are. 

2. Is your pregnancy viable? 

1. 1. You need to rule out an ectopic pregnancy, or a pregnancy located outside of the uterus. If you have an ectopic pregnancy, you need emergent medical attention. 
   2. You also need to know if the pregnancy is progressing. Miscarriages occur in 10-20% of pregnancies, often in the first trimester. So, before ending the pregnancy, you should know if you’re at risk for a miscarriage. 

Call Life Care Pregnancy Center for a free ultrasound today at 910-947-6198. 

What’s The Difference Between Miscarriage and Abortion? 

A miscarriage occurs when a pregnancy stops developing on its own before 20 weeks. Miscarriages occur in 10-20% of pregnancies, often for reasons outside of a woman’s control.1 Healthcare teams help manage a miscarriage, as they evaluate for signs of infection, retained tissue, and other complications. 

During an abortion, a woman intentionally ends a pregnancy by taking prescribed abortion pills, or by undergoing a medical procedure. Abortion availability depends on how far along you are in your pregnancy and state laws. All abortions should also be managed by a healthcare team. 

Do I Need an Abortion for Miscarriage? 

If you’re concerned about a miscarriage, you should first seek medical care. Healthcare teams use ultrasounds, blood work (to detect a hormone level called hCG), and a pelvic exam to evaluate for a miscarriage.2 If the pregnancy has not progressed or is no longer viable, then you may need other medical interventions, and will not need to end with an abortion. 

Not all cramps or abdominal pain indicate a miscarriage. In fact, some women experience cramping that comes and goes during the first trimester but have a healthy pregnancy. So, speak with your healthcare provider about any cramping or spotting you’ve experienced. If you are experiencing severe pain or heavy bleeding, you should seek medical care immediately! 

Can Physical Harm Cause a Miscarriage? 

If you’re experiencing an unexpected pregnancy and experiencing abuse or considering harming yourself, please know that you have other options. Inflicting physical harm does not always cause a miscarriage and can instead threaten your health and your life. If you’re in immediate danger, call 911. Otherwise, call Life Care Pregnancy Center to speak confidentially with our kind and compassionate staff. 

What Are The Risks of The Abortion Pill? 

The abortion pills can cause cramping and bleeding for up to four weeks. Complications after taking the first abortion pill (mifepristone) can include prolonged bleeding, an infection, an allergic reaction, or an incomplete abortion, which could require further medical intervention. 

Additionally, women who take the abortion pill are at greater risk of the need for emergency care. A study by the Lozier Institute found that within 30 days of taking the abortion pill, 53% of women had to visit the emergency room due to abortion-related complications.3 

Is it Safe to Use Herbs for Abortion?  

No one should take herbs or home remedies to end a pregnancy. Taking herbs to attempt an abortion could cause severe complications including organ failure,4 or even death.5 

Can Stress Cause a Miscarriage? 

Research affirms that stress, exercise, sexual activity, and prolonged use of birth control do not cause miscarriage.6 Nonetheless, your mental and emotional wellbeing are extremely important. If you find yourself unable to handle stress or are experiencing spiraling thoughts, call Life Care Pregnancy Center for help and support.

Learn More About the Difference Between Miscarriage and Abortion in Carthage, North Carolina

Before trying to end your pregnancy, call us at 910-947-6198. Our compassionate team is here to provide the information you need to make the best decision for your health and your future. We can also educate you on the difference between miscarriage and abortion. Click the button below to get started.

Please be aware that Life Care Pregnancy Center does not provide or refer for abortion services. A medical professional will evaluate the necessity of an ultrasound.