Thinking about taking the abortion pill is a serious decision, and understanding its risks and implications is essential to making an informed decision about your health. It’s more than just taking two pills—it’s a procedure that can have serious physical effects.
We’ll explain what you need to know about the abortion pill so you can navigate this decision with clarity and confidence.
The Abortion Pill
The abortion pill, also known as a medical abortion, uses two drugs to terminate a pregnancy: mifepristone and misoprostol. The FDA has approved its use through the first 10 weeks of pregnancy.
The first drug, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for pregnancy development. After 24–48 hours, misoprostol is taken to cause uterine contractions and expel the pregnancy tissue.
Common Side Effects
The abortion pill often causes cramping to the stomach area and vaginal bleeding. Other side effects may include:
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Fever or chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Many women report that the pain is more intense than expected, and these side effects can vary in severity.
Potential Risks
As with any medical procedure, there are risks to consider, including:
- The body not releasing all pregnancy tissue in the uterus, also called an incomplete abortion. This may require surgical abortion.
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work.
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding.
- Infection.
- Fever.
- Digestive symptoms such as upset stomach.
Get Fully Informed
Before deciding, it’s essential to have complete information about your pregnancy and the abortion pill. For example, confirming how far along you are with an ultrasound is critical.
At Assure Pregnancy Clinic, we provide a safe and confidential space to learn about your options. We offer free services, including pregnancy testing and ultrasounds, so you can get the information you need to make an informed decision.
Contact us today to schedule your free appointment and take the next step with confidence.