What are the advantages of early abortion?

There are two main ways abortion can be done: the [abortion pill (also called medication abortion)](/abortion-types/pill) and an [abortion procedure (also called in-clinic abortion)](/abortion-types/procedure). Everyone is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to what type of abortion is better. Both types of abortion have a very low risk of serious complications. Which one is right for you will depend on a lot of factors, including what’s available closest to your location and how far along in pregnancy you are, since the abortion pill is generally only available earlier in pregnancy (and each provider has its own rules about how far into pregnancy they offer it–some may offer it through around 14 weeks of pregnancy and some may stop offering it much earlier in pregnancy). For some people, being able to have their abortion at home at a time that works for them is the most important thing. For some, an abortion with the abortion pill feels more like a “natural” process because it’s similar to an early miscarriage. For those who want it to be over as quickly as possible, it’s important to know that the abortion may take several hours when you take the abortion pill, but it usually takes just 5 to 10 minutes when you have an abortion procedure. Others may want to get an abortion procedure because they’re able to get IV sedation that makes them very relaxed or puts them to sleep so that they don’t have to experience the abortion itself. And still others choose an abortion procedure because it is more likely to be effective than the abortion pill, especially the later in pregnancy you are. For more help deciding what type of abortion makes the most sense for you, check our [list of pros and cons for each abortion type](/abortion-types/pill-vs-procedure-how-to-decide).

Some states have laws that allow you to do your counseling appointment via telehealth, and then do your ultrasound and abortion at the same appointment, if you have to travel a long distance to get an abortion. These laws prevent you from having to travel a long distance twice or having to stay far from home during the waiting period. If you’re going to have to travel a long way for your abortion, ask if virtual counseling is an option when you call to make your appointment. Other states may allow you to get abortion pills online through telehealth, which means you don’t have to meet with a provider in person to have an abortion.

Legal abortion performed by a certified health care provider is [very safe](https://www.ansirh.org/sites/default/files/publications/files/safetybrief12-14.pdf), just like many other common outpatient procedures. The rate of major complications is low, at 0.23%, which is similar to the rate of major complications caused by colonoscopies. And it actually has a lower rate of complications than wisdom tooth removal. The earlier in pregnancy you get an abortion, the lower the chances are of complications. Abortion doesn’t cause long-term health risks or affect your chances of getting pregnant in the future.