A medical abortion, also called the abortion pill, involves taking two different abortion drugs that work to terminate an existing pregnancy. It comes with risks and side effects that you will want to be aware of beforehand.
First, confirm how far along you are and determine what abortion options are available to you to safeguard your health. A medical abortion is only recommended by the FDA for women through 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Get a free professional-grade pregnancy test and possible ultrasound at our center to determine where your pregnancy stands and what abortion options you have.
First, Mifepristone is Taken
The first drug prescribed during a medical abortion is called mifepristone. This abortion drug works to block the progesterone hormone. This causes the uterus lining to thin and prevents the embryo from growing and staying attached to the uterus.
Second, Misoprostol is Taken
Misoprostol is taken 24 to 48 hours later after taking mifepristone. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the embryo through the vagina.
Risks & Side Effects of Medical Abortion
Experiencing risks and side effects of mifepristone and misoprostol is not uncommon for women. There are risks to taking the abortion pill, including the following:
- 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.
Some possible side effects of medical abortion include vaginal bleeding, upset stomach, chills, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and a headache.
Before A Medical Abortion
We can offer you a free professional-grade pregnancy test at Life Choices FRC and a possible ultrasound. We can inform you about all your pregnancy options, including abortion. Talk to us today to learn more.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.