If you’re facing a pregnancy you weren’t expecting, you may be considering abortion pills. The abortion pill is also referred to as a medical abortion or chemical abortion; regardless of the name, the process uses drugs to end an early pregnancy. Before you decide to take abortion pills, it’s important to know how the process works and the possible risks.
At Crossroads Women’s Center, we provide a safe, confidential space to learn about your options and get answers to your questions so that you can make a fully informed decision. Give us a call to discuss your questions and options for moving forward.
How Abortion Pills Work
A medical abortion requires two drugs taken in sequence. Mifepristone, the first drug, blocks progesterone, a hormone your body needs to sustain a pregnancy. Without progesterone, the uterine lining breaks down, and the pregnancy stops developing.
Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue. This results in heavy bleeding and cramping, sometimes more intense than a regular period.
The abortion pill is FDA-approved for use up to 10 weeks of pregnancy. Using it after this time increases the likelihood of complications, including incomplete abortion.
Possible Side Effects and Risks
Like all drugs and medical procedures, the abortion pills cause specific side effects that include nausea or vomiting, fever or chills, and diarrhea. They can also cause headaches, dizziness, or weakness.
In addition to side effects, there are also risks associated with abortion pills. An incomplete abortion can happen, which requires a surgical procedure to complete the abortion. You may also experience heavy bleeding, infection, and even an allergic reaction to the drugs.
If you experience severe bleeding, prolonged fever, or symptoms that worsen, it’s essential to seek medical help immediately.
Why an Ultrasound Matters
Before taking abortion pills, an ultrasound is an important step. An ultrasound can:
- Confirm your pregnancy and determine how far along you are
- Detect an ectopic pregnancy, which is a nonviable pregnancy that occurs outside the uterus and requires emergency treatment.
- Reveal if the pregnancy is viable or if you may have miscarried after your positive pregnancy test.
At Crossroads Women’s Center, we offer no-cost, limited ultrasounds so you can have this vital information before making your decision.
We’re Here for You
Making a pregnancy decision can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Crossroads Women’s Center provides free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and information on all your options in a confidential and compassionate setting.
Schedule your free appointment today. We’re here to help you take the next step to protect your health and safety.
Crossroads Women’s Center does not perform or refer for abortions.