Clinical Abortion vs Abortion Pill

Two Safe Options — One Important Decision

When you are considering an abortion, one of the first questions you will face is which method is right for you: the abortion pill (medication abortion) or a surgical abortion (also called an in-clinic abortion). Both are safe, effective, and performed at Dr. Emily Women's Health Center in the Bronx. The right choice depends on how far along you are, your medical history, your preferences, and your lifestyle.

Here is a clear, honest comparison to help you understand your options.

The Abortion Pill (Medication Abortion) — Up to 9 Weeks

The abortion pill is not a single pill — it is a two-medication regimen. The first medication, mifepristone, is taken at our clinic and works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which the pregnancy needs to continue. The second medication, misoprostol, is taken at home 24 to 48 hours later and causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy, similar to an early miscarriage.

How effective is it? The abortion pill is approximately 97% effective when taken correctly up to 9 weeks of pregnancy. In the small percentage of cases where it does not work completely, a follow-up D&C procedure may be needed.

What does it feel like? Most patients experience cramping and bleeding starting within a few hours of taking misoprostol. This can be significant — similar to a heavy period with stronger cramps. The process typically takes several hours at home. Some patients pass tissue and clots.

What are the advantages?

• Can be done in the privacy of your home
• No anesthesia required
• Feels more "natural" to some patients — similar to a miscarriage
• Two office visits total (one to receive medication, one for follow-up ultrasound)

What are the limitations?

• Only available up to 9 weeks of pregnancy
• Requires spending several hours at home managing cramps and bleeding
• Small chance it does not work completely, requiring a follow-up procedure
• Not recommended for patients with certain medical conditions including IUD in place, clotting disorders, or those on blood thinners

Cost at our clinic: $600 self-pay, includes both office visits, both ultrasounds, and all medications. Covered in full by Medicaid.

Surgical Abortion (In-Clinic Abortion) — Up to 21 Weeks

A surgical abortion is a procedure performed at our clinic by one of our board-certified OB/GYN physicians. During the first trimester, the procedure is called a vacuum aspiration — a gentle suction is used to remove the pregnancy from the uterus. During the second trimester, a procedure called dilation and evacuation (D&E) is used.

At Dr. Emily Women's Health Center, general anesthesia is included as standard in every surgical abortion — you will be completely asleep, feel no pain, and have no memory of the procedure. This is not standard at many clinics, which either charge extra for anesthesia or offer only local anesthesia.

How effective is it? Surgical abortion is more than 99% effective.

How long does it take? The procedure itself typically takes 5 to 15 minutes. You will spend additional time in recovery before going home. Most patients are ready to leave within an hour or two of arriving.

What are the advantages?

• Over 99% effective — highest success rate of any abortion method
• Completed in one visit in most cases
• General anesthesia included — no pain during the procedure
• Available up to 21 weeks of pregnancy
• No hours of cramping and bleeding at home
• Immediate confirmation that the procedure is complete

What are the limitations?

• Requires coming to our clinic for the procedure
• You will need someone to accompany you home if you receive general anesthesia
• Slightly more involved medically than the abortion pill

Cost at our clinic: Starting at $600 for procedures under 12 weeks. Second trimester pricing varies by gestational age — see our full fee schedule at dremily.net. Covered in full by Medicaid.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Which Method Is Right for You?

There is no single right answer — it depends on your individual situation. Some patients strongly prefer the privacy and home setting of the abortion pill. Others prefer the speed, certainty, and comfort of a surgical procedure under anesthesia. Many patients who are further along than 9 weeks will need a surgical abortion regardless of preference.

The best way to decide is to talk with one of our physicians. When you call to schedule your appointment, we will ask about your last menstrual period, verify your insurance, and answer any questions you have about both options. An ultrasound at your first visit will confirm your gestational age and help determine which methods are available to you.

Call 718-585-1010 or book online at www.dremily.net. We are located at 642 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY — one block from the 6 train at East 149th Street.