What is the Abortion Pill? (Medical Abortion)
Also referred to as “the abortion pill,” medical abortion is a two-step process incorporating mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone first works to block progesterone, the pregnancy hormone, and ultimately ends the pregnancy.
Misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours later. It works to cause the uterus to go into contractions and expel the pregnancy through the vagina. Follow-up with a medical professional is always recommended to be sure the procedure was completed.
The Risks Of Medical Abortion
With such a major medical procedure comes serious risks, including:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Digestive system discomfort
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
Side Effects of the Abortion Pill
The Abortion Pill involves two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Along with the risks of the abortion pill process, there are also associated side effects women should discuss with a trusted provider or medical center before taking the Abortion Pill.
The Mayo Clinic shares these known side effects of this medication, including:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Confirm Your Pregnancy
To determine if you’re eligible for the abortion pill, you will want to first confirm your pregnancy test results. Follow up your home results with lab-quality pregnancy testing to be sure, as well as an ultrasound.
An ultrasound will confirm three vital details of your pregnancy including viability (growing and healthy), the location of your pregnancy, and how far along you are. Medical abortion is only recommended by the FDA for pregnancy through 70 days gestation (70 days or less since the first day of a woman’s last menstrual period).
Learn More About This Option
Contact us today if you have questions about your options and want more information about our pregnancy services and support. We offer not just pregnancy testing and ultrasounds, but also no-cost and confidential options consultations.
We are here for you! Reach out to us today to get clarity before making your final pregnancy decision.