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NYC Health + Hospitals facilities offer abortion services (termination of pregnancy). Depending on various criteria seen below, this can be done by medication or surgical procedure. We are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment.
To make an appointment to receive detailed counseling about your options, please call 1-844-NYC-4NYC.
Medication abortion (Pill abortion)
Medication can be used to end a pregnancy up to eleven completed weeks of pregnancy (77 days).
- Mifepristone: You take the first medicine, mifepristone, in the office with us or at home
- Misoprostol (Cytotec™): You take a second medicine one or two days later at home. These two medications work together to safely and effectively end the pregnancy
During the process, you will experience strong cramping and heavy vaginal bleeding for several hours, followed by cramping and bleeding similar to a heavy period. After the medication abortion, it is normal to continue to have some spotting and/or light vaginal bleeding for approximately two weeks, and sometimes up to a month.
You will need a follow-up appointment one to two weeks later to ensure that the abortion is complete. This can be done in person or by televisit (telephone visit). Medication abortion is approximately 95% effective.
You may ovulate as soon as two weeks after an abortion. If you would like to avoid future pregnancy, we can provide contraceptive options that are appropriate for you.
Counseling and support options are available to help you throughout the process.
Surgical abortion
Surgical abortion options depend on the length of the pregnancy (gestational age) and other health considerations. Depending upon these factors, the abortion can be completed in a single visit or require more than one visit. We will explain your options and work with you to make a plan. We will also explain what you can expect during and after treatment.
Pain management options are available to you and may include:
- Local anesthetic with numbing medication around your cervix,
- Oral or injectable medications to help you relax and to help control pain
- Moderate sedation with intravenous (IV) medication
- Deep sedation and general anesthesia (available in the operating room)
Immediately after the procedure, it is normal to experience strong cramping and vaginal bleeding. During your recovery period, it is normal to experience bleeding similar to a period. Depending on the type of surgical abortion you receive, you may return to most normal activities as early as the day after the procedure.
You may ovulate as soon as two weeks after an abortion. If you would like to avoid future pregnancy, we can provide contraceptive options that are appropriate for you.
Counseling and support options are available to help you throughout the process.
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