If you’re in the first trimester of your pregnancy and you’re considering a medical abortion, it’s essential to learn the facts prior to making a decision. Commonly referred to as the abortion pill, knowing how the process works and the possible risks involved can help you make an informed choice.
At A Women’s Pregnancy Center, we offer free, lab-quality pregnancy tests, limited ultrasounds, and options counseling so you can get answers in a safe, supportive environment. Schedule an appointment today to get the information and encouragement you need.
How Does a Medical Abortion Work?
A medical abortion involves taking two drugs over a couple of days. The first drug is mifepristone, which blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary to support the growing embryo or fetus.
The second, misoprostol, is taken 24 to 48 hours later and causes the uterus to contract, expelling the embryo or fetus, along with the placenta and other pregnancy tissue. This drug is supposed to empty the uterus with abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding.
Even if these drugs are prescribed in a medical setting, the actual process usually takes place at home. Because of this, it’s critical to understand the signs of complications if you were to undergo this process. In the event of complications, immediate medical attention may be needed.
Possible Side Effects
Common side effects of a medical abortion include:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Abdominal cramping
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Upset stomach
Side effects can vary, and some symptoms—such as excessive bleeding, foul-smelling vaginal odor, or high fever—may signal a more serious issue that requires medical care.
Potential Risks to Consider
Although medical abortion (or the abortion pill) is non-surgical, it is still a significant medical procedure and carries risks such as:
- Incomplete abortion (not all tissue is expelled, which can require a surgical procedure)
- Ongoing pregnancy if the drugs don’t work
- Heavy or prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Digestive system discomfort
Knowing how far along you are and whether the embryo or fetus is developing in the uterus is crucial before considering a medical abortion. A limited ultrasound can help provide this information, along with your estimated gestational age (how far along you are), which helps you understand your options and estimated due date.
Make an Informed Choice
Before you move forward with any decision, gather the information you need. At A Women’s Pregnancy Center, we provide free lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and options counseling. Our compassionate team is here to answer your questions and walk with you every step of the way.
Schedule your free appointment today and receive the care and support you deserve.
Disclaimer: At our clinic, we do not perform or refer for abortions, but we are committed to being a free first step so that you can receive the information and clarity you need prior to such a big decision.