What Is the Difference Between a Medical Abortion and a Surgical Abortion?

A medical abortion uses prescription medications to end a pregnancy, while a surgical abortion involves a clinical procedure such as a dilation and curettage (D&C). The appropriate option depends on gestational age, medical history, and individual eligibility. A board-certified care team can review these factors during a confidential consultation to help a patient understand which approach is appropriate for their circumstances.

How Early Can Someone Have a Medical Abortion in Georgia?

Medical abortion procedures are most effective in early pregnancy. Georgia law restricts abortion after detectable cardiac activity, which can occur around six weeks of pregnancy. An ultrasound performed at the initial consultation is used to confirm gestational age and determine whether a patient meets the criteria for a medical abortion under state law.

What Side Effects Are Associated With the Abortion Pill Regimen?

Cramping and bleeding are expected parts of the process. Some patients also experience nausea, chills, or diarrhea after taking misoprostol. A care team will explain which symptoms are considered normal and outline the specific circumstances under which a patient should contact the clinic or seek follow-up care to ensure a safe recovery.

Medical Abortion Procedures In Atlanta, GA

Medication and prescription for a medical abortion procedure.

Tara Gynecology [OBGYN], LLC, serving Atlanta, GA, and the surrounding metro area, offers Medical Abortion Procedures in a confidential, patient-centered setting. Call 770-991-0041 or book an appointment online today.

What Are Medical Abortion Procedures?

A medical abortion procedure uses prescription medication to end a pregnancy without surgery. The most widely studied regimen combines mifepristone, which blocks the hormone needed for a pregnancy to continue, and misoprostol, which causes the uterus to contract and complete the process. Research shows this combination can be more than 95% effective in early pregnancy. No incisions or anesthesia are required.

How Does the Medical Abortion Procedure Work at Tara Gynecology?

Consultation and medical history review: The board-certified care team reviews your health history confidentially before any care begins.
Ultrasound: Confirms gestational age and rules out conditions affecting eligibility or safety.
Mifepristone: Taken in the clinic under physician supervision.
Misoprostol: Taken at home 24 to 48 hours later, causing cramping and bleeding as the pregnancy passes.
Follow-up: Confirms the procedure is complete and addresses aftercare or contraception questions.

Georgia Gestational Limit

Georgia law restricts abortion after detectable cardiac activity, which may occur as early as six weeks. Because many women may not know they are pregnant at that stage, acting quickly after a positive test is important. Exceptions may apply in cases of medical emergency, rape or incest (with a police report filed), or medical futility. Your care team will clarify your eligibility during consultation.

What to Expect After a Medical Abortion

Cramping and bleeding are normal. Most patients pass the pregnancy within a few hours to a day after taking misoprostol. Heavier-than-expected bleeding, fever, or signs of infection should be reported to the clinic right away. Clear aftercare instructions are provided before you leave.

Insurance, Cost, and Scheduling

Tara Gynecology accepts several major insurance plans, including Georgia Medicaid, Anthem BCBS, Aetna, Amerigroup, Cigna, United Healthcare, PeachState/PeachCare for Kids, and CareSource. Cost may vary depending on coverage and gestational age. A VIP Private Office option is available for patients who want maximum confidentiality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difference Between a Medical Abortion and a Surgical Abortion?
A medical abortion uses prescription medications to end a pregnancy, while a surgical abortion involves a clinical procedure such as a dilation and curettage (D&C). The appropriate option depends on gestational age, medical history, and individual eligibility. A board-certified care team can review these factors during a confidential consultation to help a patient understand which approach is appropriate for their circumstances.
How Early Can Someone Have a Medical Abortion in Georgia?
Medical abortion procedures are most effective in early pregnancy. Georgia law restricts abortion after detectable cardiac activity, which can occur around six weeks of pregnancy. An ultrasound performed at the initial consultation is used to confirm gestational age and determine whether a patient meets the criteria for a medical abortion under state law.
What Side Effects Are Associated With the Abortion Pill Regimen?
Cramping and bleeding are expected parts of the process. Some patients also experience nausea, chills, or diarrhea after taking misoprostol. A care team will explain which symptoms are considered normal and outline the specific circumstances under which a patient should contact the clinic or seek follow-up care to ensure a safe recovery.