Abortion methods at a glance
Both abortion methods are very safe, with low rates of complications . Both have no effect on future fertility or pregnancies unless there is an extremely rare complication. Please note: aspiration abortion is an option in very early in pregnancy and medical abortion is not the only good choice for early pregnancies.
Aspiration Abortion
Success rate: More than 99%
Appointments and time off: Usually one appointment and short recovery time
Process: During a 7-8 minute procedure, a doctor uses gentle suction to remove the pregnancy from the uterus. Time at the clinic is usually 2-3 hours.
Cost: Covered under MSP. $700 without MSP.
Pain: From mild to very strong cramping during the abortion, often some cramping after. Pain medication given, including intravenous sedation.
Bleeding: Usually light to moderate bleeding, most often less than a period. Bleeding and/or spotting may last for up to two weeks, sometimes up to the next period.
Side Effects: May have dizziness, nausea or vomiting for a short time after the procedure.
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Medical Abortion
Success rate: 95-97% by 1-2 week follow-up
Appointments and time off: Usually three appointments but the second two (several weeks apart) are usually by phone. Usually means more time to rest than with an aspiration.
Process: The first pill disrupts the pregnancy and the second one makes the uterus contract and push out the pregnancy, usually within 4-6 hours.
Cost: Covered under MSP. About $985 without MSP, about $410 with medical insurance from another province other than Quebec
Pain: From mild to very strong cramping when passing the pregnancy (usually 2 to 6 hours). Pain medication prescribed, used as needed. Off and on cramps can last for a few days.
Bleeding: Heavy bleeding and passing clots are normal during the abortion process. Bleeding and/or spotting can last up to the first period 4-6 weeks after.
Side effects: Many have flu like symptoms for a few hours including diarrhoea, fever, and chills.
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Detailed medical and aspiration abortion comparison
