If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy and researching abortion, you’ve probably come across the term medical abortion, also known as the abortion pill. You may have questions about how it works and what steps to take before reaching a decision.
It’s vital to have accurate information about both your pregnancy and the abortion procedure itself. That’s where we come in.
Her Choice Women’s Health offers free pregnancy tests, limited ultrasounds, and options information so you can get the answers you’re looking for. Schedule your confidential appointment to learn more.
Medical Abortion Is a Process, Not a Single Pill
Although it’s often called “the abortion pill,” a medical abortion usually involves two different drugs taken over the course of one to two days.
The first drug, mifepristone, blocks progesterone, the hormone needed to support a pregnancy. The second drug, misoprostol, is taken later to cause the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.
For many women, the process takes place at home. Because of that, it’s helpful to understand ahead of time what to expect.
Every Experience Is Different
Bleeding and cramping will always occur during a medical abortion, but the amount, intensity, and length of time can vary significantly from one woman to another. Some women describe the pain as much stronger than they anticipated.
Other possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, chills, headache, and fatigue. Additionally, while many women recover without complications, there are potential risks, including heavy bleeding, infection, an incomplete abortion that requires additional treatment, or an ongoing pregnancy if the drugs do not work as intended.
Knowing which symptoms are expected and which require prompt medical attention is an important part of protecting your health.
Why an Ultrasound Is Recommended First
Even if you’ve already taken a home pregnancy test, there are important questions that only an ultrasound can answer.
An ultrasound can confirm that the pregnancy is located in the uterus, estimate how far along you are, and determine whether the pregnancy is progressing. It can also identify an ectopic pregnancy, a serious medical condition that requires emergency treatment and cannot be treated with the abortion pill.
Additionally, this information is especially important because the abortion pill is FDA-approved only through 10 weeks of pregnancy. It’s not recommended to take abortion drugs beyond this timeframe, because doing so can pose additional risks to your health.
Don’t Skip Follow-Up Care
Many women assume the process is over once the drugs have been taken, but follow-up care is an important part of protecting your health.
A healthcare provider can confirm whether the abortion is complete and evaluate any symptoms that could point to complications. If you experience heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, a prolonged fever, or other concerning symptoms, seek medical attention right away.
If you’re considering a medical abortion and want more information before making a decision, Her Choice Women’s Health is here to help. Schedule your free, confidential appointment today to get started.
Her Choice Women’s Health does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
