--- title: Does Abortion Hurt? description: Learn about the potential pain and emotional impact of abortion, the types available, legal considerations, and support options for after an abortion. image: http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/hubfs/Do%20abortions%20hurt%20(1).webp --- [Skip to Content](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/be-informed/does-abortion-hurt#main-content) - [Call | (208) 203-8322](tel:+12082038322) - [Text 24/7 | (208) 203-8322](sms:+12082038322) - [24/7 Hotline: (800) 712-HELP](tel:+18007124357) [![Asset 2](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/hubfs/Asset%202.svg "Asset 2")](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com) - [Home](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com) - Show submenu for FAQs FAQs - [First Appointment Expectations](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/what-to-expect) - [About Pregnancy](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/pregnancy-faqs) - [About Abortion](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/abortion-faqs) - [About the Abortion Pill](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/abortion-pill-faqs) - Show submenu for Services Services - [Text Our Nurses](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/nurse-text) - [Abortion Info](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/abortion) - [Pregnancy Tests & Ultrasounds](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/free-pregnancy-tests-ultrasounds) - [Parenting Support](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/services) - [Talk With Someone](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/support-services) - [Support For Men](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/for-men) - [Answers & Resources](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/be-informed) - Search - [Request Appointment](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/request-appointment) - [Home](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com) - Show submenu for FAQs FAQs - [First Appointment Expectations](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/what-to-expect) - [About Pregnancy](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/pregnancy-faqs) - [About Abortion](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/abortion-faqs) - [About the Abortion Pill](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/abortion-pill-faqs) - Show submenu for Services Services - [Text Our Nurses](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/nurse-text) - [Abortion Info](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/abortion) - [Pregnancy Tests & Ultrasounds](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/free-pregnancy-tests-ultrasounds) - [Parenting Support](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/services) - [Talk With Someone](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/support-services) - [Support For Men](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/for-men) - [Answers & Resources](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/be-informed) - [Request Appointment](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/request-appointment) - Search # Does Abortion Hurt? [Abortion](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/be-informed/tag/abortion) ![Does Abortion Hurt?](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/hubfs/Do%20abortions%20hurt%20(1).webp) When it comes to abortion, it can be hard to sort through everything you hear online. If you’re wondering, “Do abortions hurt?” that’s a real and understandable question. The answer can vary depending on the type of abortion, how far along the pregnancy is, your pain tolerance, and how your body responds > Need support now? Text us for free at [(208) 203-8322](sms:+12082038322).     ### Understanding Abortion Types: Medication vs. Procedural There are two main types of abortion: medication abortion and procedural abortion.1 A medication abortion uses two medications, mifepristone and misoprostol, often called the abortion pill, to end a pregnancy. The FDA has approved this regimen through 10 weeks of pregnancy, counted from the first day of your last menstrual period.2 Procedural abortions take place in a clinical setting and use suction or instruments to remove the pregnancy tissue. These are typically performed later than medication abortions, depending on gestational age and medical circumstances.3 ## How Painful Are Abortions? So, do abortions hurt? The answer is not the same for everyone. With medication abortion, some women describe cramping and bleeding that feels like a heavy period. Others experience stronger pain, heavier bleeding, nausea, or discomfort that lasts for several hours or longer. Procedural abortions are often performed with pain management or anesthesia, so the procedure itself may be less painful for some women. However, cramping, soreness, bleeding, and fatigue can happen afterward. In general, pain and medical considerations may increase as pregnancy progresses. Your experience may depend on your body, your health history, the abortion method used, and how far along the pregnancy is. ### What Are the Risks of Abortion? Like any medical procedure or medication, abortion can carry risks. These may include infection, heavy bleeding, incomplete abortion, or the need for follow-up medical care. Procedural abortions may also involve rare complications such as injury to the cervix or uterus, especially later in pregnancy. Anesthesia, when used, can also carry its own risks.   Medication abortion is not always complete, and follow-up care may be needed. If you are considering the abortion pill, it can be helpful to confirm important pregnancy details first. [An ultrasound referral may help determine how far along you are and whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus.](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/free-pregnancy-tests-ultrasounds) The abortion pill does not treat an ectopic pregnancy, which can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical care.4   #### Emotional Impact of Abortion It’s also important to think about the emotional side of an abortion decision. Some women feel relief. Others may feel sadness, grief, anxiety, regret, numbness, or a mix of emotions. Some feelings may come right away, while others may surface later.   There is no single “right” way to feel. Your experience is your own. If a past abortion still feels heavy or unresolved, it may help to talk with someone safe and compassionate. [Compassion & Hope Pregnancy Center offers after abortion support and healing for women and men in a confidential, judgment-free space.](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/support-services)   #### Is Abortion Legal in Idaho? Idaho law generally prohibits abortion, with limited exceptions. These may include situations where abortion is necessary to prevent the pregnant person’s death, or reported cases of rape or incest during the first trimester. Providers who violate Idaho’s abortion law may face criminal penalties. If you have questions about your situation, we can offer confidential support and help you understand helpful next steps.   #### After Abortion Support After an abortion, caring for your body and your emotions matters. You may need medical follow-up, a safe person to talk to, or space to process what happened without shame or pressure. You are not alone. At Compassion & Hope Pregnancy Center, we offer free, confidential after abortion support and healing, no matter when your abortion took place. So, the question “Do abortions hurt?” is not only about physical pain. It can also involve emotions, risks, timing, legal questions, and support afterward. Text us anytime for free at [(208) 203-8322](sms:+12082038322) or request an appointment to ask questions and get support as you consider your next step.   > **[A free, confidential appointment](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/request-appointment) can help you confirm your pregnancy, ask questions about abortion pills or procedures, and receive education, support, and referrals when appropriate.**   ---   ###### 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/ ![circle icon light](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/hubfs/circle%20icon%20light.svg) ##### Get In Touch - [Contact Us](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/contact) - [Events](http://pocatellopregnancycenter.com/events) - [Give a Gift](https://giving.myamplify.io//app/giving/savelives) - [(208) 203-8322](tel:+12082038322) ##### Visit Us 845 South 9th Ave. Suite B Pocatello, ID 83209 [Get Directions](https://maps.app.goo.gl/zhpc3fVcFynh8LdGA) ##### Hours Monday: 2pm-7pm Wednesday: 12pm-5pm Thursday: 12pm-5pm ##### Here For You All our services are at no cost and strictly confidential. We do not offer, recommend or refer for abortions or abortifacients. However, we do offer the information and services required up front before making a pregnancy decision. 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