The Abortion Pill
What You Need to Know About the Abortion Pill
You deserve to have the facts when it comes to the abortion pill, also known as a medical or chemical abortion. This method involves two drugs—mifepristone and misoprostol—used to terminate a pregnancy.
The abortion pill is FDA-approved for use through 10 weeks of gestation (i.e. how far along you are). However, the FDA warns against purchasing the abortion pill online, as this can increase health risks due to improper dosing, counterfeit products, or lack of medical oversight.
How the Abortion Pill Works
The abortion pill begins with mifepristone, which blocks the hormone progesterone, necessary for pregnancy to continue. Misoprostol, taken 24-48 hours later, induces uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy.
Because this method is typically taken at home without the supervision of medical professionals, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential side effects and risks.
Side Effects and Risks
According to the Mayo Clinic, common side effects of the abortion pill include cramping in the stomach area and vaginal bleeding. Additional side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. However, more serious risks exist, such as:
- 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.
Before Taking the Abortion Pill
Before taking the abortion pill, an ultrasound is essential to gather vital information about your pregnancy. It confirms the gestational age, checks the pregnancy’s location (to rule out an ectopic pregnancy), and determines whether the pregnancy is viable. This information is necessary to ensure you’re eligible for the abortion pill.
Additionally, it’s important to get tested for STIs before the procedure. Undiagnosed infections can lead to complications, including the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) after an abortion. Taking these steps can help protect your health and safety.
Get No-Cost Pregnancy Services and Information
While the abortion pill involves taking drugs to end a pregnancy, it is still a serious medical procedure. That’s why Assurance is here to get you medically accurate information so you can be aware of all the potential risks.
Assurance also provides no-cost pregnancy services and resources to help you prioritize your health and get fully informed so you can make a decision you feel confident about.
Contact us to schedule a confidential appointment today.
This information is intended for general education purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice. Assurance does not provide or refer for abortions but can help you answer the questions above before you decide.