Reliable Facts on Abortion

Abortion FAQs

You're not the only one wondering. Find answers on abortion options, process, costs, and guidance in one place.
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Your Abortion Questions—Answered With Care

  • What Is An Abortion?

    Abortion is a medical procedure that ends a pregnancy.


    It can be done either with prescribed medication or through a surgical intervention, depending on how far along the pregnancy is.

    Medication abortion involves taking a two-drug regimen to terminate an early pregnancy, while surgical abortion uses techniques like vacuum aspiration or dilation and evacuation.

  • How Does Abortion Occur?

    Abortion is the ending of a pregnancy through medication or a medical procedure.

    A medication abortion uses prescribed medicines to stop a pregnancy early on. One medication blocks progesterone, a hormone needed to continue the pregnancy, and another causes the uterus to contract and pass the pregnancy. This method is typically used in early pregnancy.

    A procedural (surgical) abortion is performed in a clinical setting and involves removing the pregnancy from the uterus. The specific method used depends on how far along the pregnancy is and the provider’s medical approach.

  • Medical Abortion V. Surgical Abortion?

    Medical abortion ends a pregnancy using prescribed medications, while procedural (surgical) abortion is performed in a clinical setting.

    A medical abortion typically involves two medications—mifepristone and misoprostol—used in early pregnancy. One medication blocks progesterone, a hormone needed to continue the pregnancy, and the other causes the uterus to contract and pass the pregnancy.

    A procedural abortion involves a medical provider removing the pregnancy from the uterus during an in-clinic procedure. The specific method used depends on how far along the pregnancy is.

  • Is Abortion Legal In New Mexico?

    Yes. Abortion, including medication abortion, is legal in New Mexico. Laws and access can change, and availability depends on individual circumstances, such as how far along a pregnancy is.

    While we do not provide or refer for abortion services, we offer pregnancy testing, ultrasound, and confidential information to help you understand your pregnancy options and ask informed questions before making any decision.

  • Does Abortion Hurt?

    Pain experiences vary depending on the type of abortion, how far along the pregnancy is, and individual factors.

    With a medication abortion, people often experience cramping that can feel similar to a heavy or intense menstrual period as the uterus contracts. The level and duration of discomfort can differ from person to person.

    With a procedural (surgical) abortion, anesthesia or pain medication is typically used during the procedure, which helps reduce discomfort at that time. Some cramping or soreness afterward is common as the body recovers.

  • How Long Do You Bleed After An Abortion?

    Bleeding usually lasts one to two weeks, but could be longer depending on the procedure and length of pregnancy, including light spotting sometimes continuing for several weeks.

    After a medical abortion, heavier bleeding and passing small clots tend to occur in the first few days, then gradually taper off; light spotting can persist for up to six weeks.

    With a surgical abortion, most bleeding clears within about a week, though mild spotting may continue for one to two weeks afterward.

     

    Source:
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21899-medical-abortion

  • How Much Does An Abortion Cost?

    The cost of an abortion varies widely depending on the procedure, how far along the pregnancy is, and your insurance coverage.

    Some people pay only a modest out-of-pocket fee, while others may face higher expenses if their insurance doesn’t cover the service or if the procedure occurs later in pregnancy.

  • What's In The Abortion Pill?

    The abortion pill regimen consists of two medications: mifepristone followed by misoprostol.

    Mifepristone works by blocking progesterone, a hormone needed to maintain the uterine lining, causing the pregnancy to detach.

    Misoprostol is taken 24–48 hours later to induce uterine contractions that expel the pregnancy tissue.

    The FDA only approves of this procedure during the first ten weeks of pregnancy and it should only be administered under clinical supervision with a follow-up visit to confirm success and address any cramping or bleeding.

    Source:

    https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/020687Orig1s025Lbl.pdf

  • How Soon After An Abortion Can You Get Pregnant?

    Fertility can return quickly after an abortion. Some people ovulate as soon as two weeks afterward, while for others it may take several weeks or a few months for cycles to regulate.

    Many women ovulate before their first post-abortion period, often around four to six weeks, which means pregnancy is possible even before a regular cycle resumes. Timing varies widely from person to person.

    Most medical sources indicate that abortion does not usually affect future fertility. However, rare complications—such as infection or untreated injury to the uterus—can impact reproductive health if they occur and are not properly treated. Follow-up care and medical evaluation are important to protect long-term fertility.

     

  • What Are The Risks Of Abortion?

    All medical procedures carry some level of risk, and abortion is no exception. The type of abortion, how far along the pregnancy is, and individual health factors can all affect risk levels.

    With a medication abortion, common physical effects include cramping, bleeding, nausea, and fatigue. In some cases, heavier bleeding or an incomplete abortion can occur, which may require additional medical care.

    With a procedural (surgical) abortion, cramping and light bleeding are common afterward. Rare complications can include infection, injury to the cervix or uterus, or scarring.

    Most medical sources indicate that abortion does not usually affect future fertility. However, rare complications, such as untreated infection or significant uterine injury, can impact reproductive health if they occur and are not properly addressed. Follow-up care is important to reduce these risks.

    In addition to physical effects, some people experience emotional or mental health impacts following an abortion. Reactions vary widely and can include relief, sadness, or a mix of emotions.

    Understanding potential risks—and having accurate information about your pregnancy—can help you make a more informed decision and know when to seek medical care.

Considering Abortion in the Las Cruces Area?

At High Desert Women's Center, we provide free lab-quality pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and information on abortion options, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Feeling overwhelmed? Text us for free at (231) 300-9380 to talk or schedule an appointment.