The abortion law does not affect birth control, as abortion and birth control are two distinct concepts. Abortion is a medical procedure that ends an existing pregnancy, whereas birth control, or contraception, prevents pregnancy from occurring in the first place. Contraceptive methods such as the birth control pill, the patch, the ring, the shot, and the morning-after pill work by preventing ovulation, fertilization, or implantation of a fertilized egg. While some sources argue that certain forms of emergency contraception, such as the morning-after pill, can act as an abortifacient by preventing implantation, it is important to note that this is a matter of debate with differing definitions of when pregnancy begins.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Abortion | Ends an existing pregnancy |
Birth Control | Prevents pregnancy |
Birth Control Methods | The pill, the ring, the patch, the shot, the morning-after pill, barrier contraceptives (condoms), surgical methods (tubal ligation or vasectomy), hormonal birth control |
How Birth Control Works | Stops ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, thins the lining of the uterus |
Abortion Methods | Surgical abortion, medical abortion |
How Abortion Works | Scrapes the embryo from the uterus, causes the uterus to contract and shed its lining and the embryo |
What You'll Learn
Birth control methods
Barrier Methods
These methods block sperm from entering the uterus. They include:
- Condoms
- Diaphragms
- Sponge
- Cervical cap
Long-acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARC)
LARCs are inserted by a doctor and last for 3 to 10 years. They include:
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
- Hormonal implants
Short-acting Hormonal Methods
These methods are prescribed by a doctor and must be taken every day or month. They include:
- The pill
- Mini pills
- Patch
- Shot
- Vaginal ring
Natural Rhythm Methods
These methods involve avoiding sex or using other forms of birth control during a woman's fertile period. They include:
- Fertility awareness
- Natural family planning
Emergency Contraception
This is a form of birth control that can be used within 120 hours (5 days) of unprotected sex. It is often referred to as the "morning-after pill".
It is important to note that birth control methods vary in their effectiveness, and some methods may be more suitable for certain individuals than others. Additionally, some methods may have side effects or risks associated with them. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate birth control method for your specific needs and circumstances.
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Abortion methods
There are several methods for performing an abortion, depending on the stage of the pregnancy, patient preference, provider skill, need and desire for sedation, costs, clinical setting, and state policies and regulations. These methods include medication, aspiration, dilation and evacuation (D&E), and induction.
Medication Abortion
Medication abortion is used in early pregnancy and involves taking mifepristone, a progesterone receptor antagonist, followed by misoprostol, a prostaglandin E1 analogue, which causes uterine contractions and cervical ripening. This combination of drugs results in a chemical abortion. The abortion pill regimen may cause side effects such as vaginal bleeding, cramps, pelvic pain, headache, tiredness, and anxiety.
Aspiration Abortion
Aspiration abortion is a minimally invasive and commonly used gynecological procedure. It involves the use of suction to remove the contents of the uterus through a small tube inserted into the uterus. This method is typically used during the first trimester and may be done under local or general anesthesia.
Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)
D&E is a second-trimester surgical abortion method that involves dilating the cervix and then using suction, forceps, and other medical tools to remove the fetus and other products of pregnancy. This procedure is typically done under sedation or general anesthesia.
Induction Abortion
Induction abortion is rarely performed in the United States. It involves the use of medications to induce labor and delivery of the fetus. This method is more painful, slower, and more expensive than D&E.
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How birth control affects the body
Birth control pills, as well as the ring, the patch, the shot, and the morning-after pill, are not abortion-inducing drugs. They prevent pregnancy by preventing ovulation and/or the fertilization of an egg. However, birth control can have several side effects on the body and the mind.
Hormonal birth control changes levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone to stop ovulation. While this helps prevent pregnancy, it can also cause other side effects, including:
- Headaches
- Sleep problems
- Weight gain
- Digestive issues
- Changes in menstrual bleeding
- Breast tenderness or swelling
- Cardiovascular issues
- Blood clots
- Heightened responses to stress
- Changes in libido
- Acne
- Unusual hair growth
Long-Term Effects of Birth Control
Hormonal birth control is generally considered safe for long-term use. However, some possible long-term side effects have been identified, such as:
- Cancer: Oral contraceptives may increase the risk of breast, ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancer.
- Gallbladder disease: Some types of hormonal birth control may increase the risk of gallbladder disease, although results are mixed.
- Stroke: Long-term use of hormonal birth control may double the risk of ischemic stroke, although this is rare.
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How abortion affects the body
Abortion is generally very safe, and most women will not experience any problems. However, as with any medical treatment, there is a small risk of complications. The risks are different depending on the type of abortion and how many weeks pregnant the patient is.
Medical Abortion Risks
Before 14 weeks of pregnancy, the main risks of a medical abortion are:
- Needing another procedure to remove parts of the pregnancy that remain in the womb, which happens to about 70 out of 1,000 women
- Serious complications such as heavy bleeding, damage to the womb, or sepsis, which happens to about 1 out of 1,000 women
From 14 weeks of pregnancy, the main risks of a medical abortion include:
- Needing another procedure to remove parts of the pregnancy, which happens to about 13 out of 100 women
- Infection or injury to the womb, which happens to a small number of women
Surgical Abortion Risks
Before 14 weeks of pregnancy, the main risks of a surgical abortion are:
- Needing another procedure to remove parts of the pregnancy, which happens to about 35 out of 1,000 women
- Serious complications such as heavy bleeding, damage to the womb, or sepsis, which happens to about 1 out of 1,000 women
After 14 weeks of pregnancy, the main risks of a surgical abortion include:
- Needing another procedure to remove parts of the pregnancy, which happens to about 3 out of 100 women
- Very heavy bleeding, which occurs in between about 1 and 10 out of 100 women
- Infection, which happens to a small number of women
- Injury to the womb or cervix, which happens to a small number of women
Effect on Fertility, Health, and Future Pregnancies
Having an abortion does not increase the risk of breast cancer or mental health issues. It will also not affect a person's chances of becoming pregnant and having normal pregnancies in the future. However, abortion can cause a weakening of the cervix, which increases the risk of future pre-term deliveries.
Additionally, complications from abortion, such as infection and damage to the uterus, can lead to infertility and increased risks during future pregnancies. There is also a very small risk to fertility and future pregnancies if a womb infection develops and is not treated quickly. This infection could spread to the fallopian tubes and ovaries, leading to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can increase the risk of infertility and ectopic pregnancy.
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The difference between birth control and abortion
Birth control and abortion are two distinct concepts that are sometimes conflated in discussions around reproductive health and rights. Here are the key differences between the two:
Definition and Purpose
Birth control, also known as contraception, refers to methods or devices used to prevent pregnancy. It involves various approaches, such as barrier methods (e.g., condoms), hormonal methods (e.g., birth control pills, patches, injections), and surgical procedures (e.g., tubal ligation or vasectomy). The primary purpose of birth control is to prevent fertilization or implantation, thereby avoiding an unwanted pregnancy.
On the other hand, abortion refers to the termination or ending of a pregnancy. It involves medical or surgical procedures to remove the embryo or fetus from the uterus. Abortion is typically sought when an individual chooses not to continue with a pregnancy, whether due to personal, health, or other reasons.
Timing and Mechanism
The primary distinction between birth control and abortion lies in their timing and mechanism of action. Birth control methods are used before pregnancy occurs and work by preventing fertilization or implantation. They do not end an existing pregnancy. For example, birth control pills suppress ovulation, thicken cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg, or thin the uterine lining to hinder implantation.
In contrast, abortion occurs after a pregnancy has already been established. It involves either surgical procedures or medication to end the pregnancy. Surgical abortions typically involve vacuum aspiration or dilation and evacuation, depending on the stage of pregnancy. Medication abortions, on the other hand, use drugs like mifepristone and misoprostol to induce contractions and expel the pregnancy.
Legality and Access
The legality of birth control and abortion can vary depending on the region and local laws. Generally, birth control methods are widely accepted and accessible in many parts of the world. However, there may be cultural, religious, or logistical barriers that impact an individual's ability to access birth control services and information.
Abortion laws, on the other hand, tend to be more restrictive and controversial. The legality of abortion often varies by jurisdiction, with some places allowing it under specific circumstances (such as in cases of rape, incest, or to protect the life of the pregnant person) or within a certain gestational timeframe. The accessibility of abortion services is influenced by these legal restrictions, as well as social and cultural attitudes.
Safety Considerations
Both birth control and abortion have safety profiles that should be considered. While birth control methods are generally safe, they may have side effects or interact with other medications. Additionally, their effectiveness depends on consistent and proper use.
Abortion, when performed by trained medical professionals, is also generally safe. Studies have suggested that legal abortions are significantly safer than childbirth, with lower mortality and morbidity rates. However, as with any medical procedure, there are risks involved, and informed consent is essential to ensure individuals understand these risks.
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Frequently asked questions
Abortion laws do not affect birth control methods. Birth control is any method used to prevent pregnancy, such as barrier contraceptives, surgical methods, and hormonal birth control. Abortion, on the other hand, is a medical procedure that ends an existing pregnancy.
No, birth control pills do not cause abortions. Birth control pills work by preventing ovulation and/or fertilization of an egg. Abortion, on the other hand, is the termination of an existing pregnancy.
Birth control methods work by preventing pregnancy before it happens, while abortion ends an existing pregnancy. Birth control can stop ovulation, fertilization, or implantation of an embryo. Abortion involves either scraping the implanted embryo off the uterine wall or causing the uterus to contract and shed its lining, along with the embryo.