The abortion pill, also known as medical abortion, is a method to terminate an early pregnancy, typically used up to 10 weeks from the last menstrual period. It involves two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol.
If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, get free pregnancy testing and options counseling at the Southern Ohio Pregnancy Center. Call us at (937) 393-2990. Continue reading to learn more about the abortion pill.
How Does It Work?
The abortion pill is a series of two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone is taken first, usually taken at a doctor’s office or abortion clinic. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone.
You will be sent home with misoprostol to take 24-48 hours later. This causes uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy at home.
What Can I Expect After?
The most notable thing you can expect is bleeding and cramping. These start after taking the second pill, misoprostol. Cramping can be intense as the uterus contracts to expel the pregnancy. Bleeding usually is heavier than a menstrual period and often includes clots.
Other side effects may include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Abdominal cramping
- Vaginal bleeding
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
It’s essential to keep in mind that while a medical abortion only uses pills, it’s still a serious medical procedure. It is not without its risks, such as:
- 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
- Digestive system discomfort
With that in mind, it’s essential for you to have a follow-up appointment with a medical professional to ensure there are no complications.
Taking The First Steps
This blog is just a brief overview of what you can expect with the abortion pill.
Before you make a decision, talk with one of our compassionate client advocates to discuss all your options, as well as the resources and referrals available to you. Call us at (937) 393-2990 or text us at (937) 509-0108.
