A medical abortion, also referred to as the “abortion pill,” is a combination of two powerful drugs that work together to terminate and remove a pregnancy from the uterus.
If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy and considering abortion, it’s critical to arm yourself with the facts to ensure you’re making an educated decision.
This article will highlight the essentials you need to know about a medical abortion, including potential risks and how you can protect your health beforehand.
But if you want to talk to someone about your pregnancy options or learn about free resources, contact Pregnancy Help Center today to schedule a free, confidential appointment.
How Does a Medical Abortion Work?
Medical abortion is comprised of two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone is taken first. It works by blocking progesterone, an essential hormone during pregnancy. Without progesterone, your uterine lining will loosen and shed, causing your pregnancy to end.
Misoprostol is taken next. It works by causing uterine contractions, which expel the pregnancy from your uterus and out through your vagina.
How Might I Feel After Taking the Abortion Drugs?
After taking these drugs, you will experience vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping. Some women have reported that the pain they feel is unexpectedly severe.
You might also experience the following side effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
What Are the Risks of Abortion?
Abortion is associated with risks that are rare but can be life-threatening. These risks include:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
How Can I Protect My Health?
Getting an ultrasound is the number one way to protect your health before making any pregnancy decision. This scan will help reveal your pregnancy’s gestational age (which is vital if you’re considering medical abortion since the drugs are only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is under 10 weeks), location, and viability.
At Pregnancy Help Center, we offer free, limited ultrasounds if you receive a positive pregnancy test at our center. We also provide medically accurate information about your pregnancy options to ensure you know all you can—the more you know, the more you will feel equipped to make the best choice for you.
Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential appointment. You’re not alone in this. We’re here for you.