Anytime an abortion provider recommends drugs to terminate a pregnancy, they are suggesting a medical abortion. This method is also known as the abortion pill. However, it isn’t one pill. It’s two powerful drugs taken over a 24-48 hour period. There are certain limitations, side effects, and potential risks, so we’re glad you’re asking about it now.
How Does a Medical Abortion Work?
The first drug in the abortion pill method is mifepristone. The FDA highly regulates this drug. Only certified providers can prescribe it. Mifepristone blocks a hormone called progesterone. This hormone is essential for the pregnancy’s growth. Without it, the pregnancy ends.
The second drug, misoprostol, causes bleeding and contraction-like cramping to expel the pregnancy from the body through the vagina.
One of the risks of using the abortion pill is an incomplete abortion. When an abortion is incomplete, not all pregnancy tissue comes out of the body, leaving some still inside. The remaining tissue inside can lead to an infection.
What Side Effects Should I Expect?
Every woman experiences an abortion differently. Experts say you could have the following side effects:
- Cramping
- Bleeding
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Are There Any Risks?
Although risks are rare, it’s essential to be aware of them. Potential risks of the abortion pill method include:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
Can Anyone Take The Abortion Pill?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, a medical abortion isn’t a safe option if you:
- Are too far along in your pregnancy (past 10 weeks gestation).
- Are allergic to the medications used.
- Have a pregnancy outside of your uterus (ectopic pregnancy).
- Use long-term corticosteroids, such as cortisone or prednisone.
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD).
- Have a blood clotting disorder, significant anemia, or chronic adrenal failure.
- Don’t have access to emergency care.
How We Can Help
HopePlace does not provide or refer for abortions. We do, however, want you to have as much information as possible regarding your pregnancy and options.
We are a safe place to get the facts you need to make a confident decision for your future. Whether you need to take a pregnancy test or retest to confirm your results, we’ll provide you with a free test. Plus, we may be able to offer an ultrasound referral.
No matter your pregnancy test result, we are here for you. Our peer advocates offer life skills classes and coaching.
We want to listen and help. Please do not hesitate to contact us for a free appointment. There is hope for a brighter future.