A medical abortion, commonly referred to as the abortion pill method, is the same. This type of abortion uses drugs, rather than surgery, to terminate a pregnancy. Like every major medical decision, it’s essential to understand the procedure, the side effects, and the potential risks. We’re glad you are reading this, and we’re happy to answer your question.
What Happens With a Medical Abortion (The Abortion Pill)?
The abortion pill uses two drugs to end a pregnancy. The first drug, mifepristone, is highly regulated by the FDA. They only approve its use through 10 weeks of pregnancy (the gestational age).
Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone. Every pregnancy needs progesterone to grow. Without it, the pregnancy ends.
The second drug, misoprostol, causes cramping and bleeding to expel the pregnancy from the body. For some women, this is extremely painful.
What Are the Side Effects?
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 important 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
The FDA advises you to contact your abortion provider or visit emergency care if you experience any of the following:
- Heavy bleeding (if you soak through two full-sized sanitary pads per hour for two consecutive hours)
- Abdominal pain or “feeling sick” (weakness, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, with or without fever for more than 24 hours)
- Fever (that lasts more than 4 hours)
Can Anyone Use the Abortion Pill?
According to the FDA, here are a few of the restrictions on who should not take the abortion pill:
- Have a pregnancy that is more than 70 days after the first day of your last period (10 weeks)
- Use an IUD
- Have an ectopic pregnancy
- Take medicine to thin your blood
- Take certain steroid medicines
- Are allergic to the drugs
How Can Choices Family Resource Center Help Me?
The only way to determine how far along you are and if you have an ectopic pregnancy is with ultrasound. Schedule an appointment for a no-cost, medical-grade pregnancy test at our center.
A medical professional will determine if you qualify for a no-cost limited ultrasound if it’s positive.
Choices Family Resource Center provides no-cost, confidential ultrasounds to women with morning appointments at our Sebring location.
Get the information you need beforehand to protect your health and safety. We’re here to help you with four convenient locations. Fill out our online form to contact us.