What Are the Side Effects of the Abortion Pill?

As with any medication, there can be physical and emotional side effects to abortion. You deserve to know all the facts to make the most informed decision for your health and well-being. Here is what you need to know.  

How Does the Abortion Pill Work?

Often referred to as ‘the abortion pill,’ medical abortion consists of two powerful drugs that are taken to terminate an existing pregnancy. 

The first drug taken is mifepristone, which blocks the production of progesterone (a hormone needed in pregnancy), causing the lining of your uterus to thin, which means the embryo can no longer stay attached.

The second drug is called misoprostol—taken 24-48 hours later. Misoprostol causes your body to cramp and contract to expel your pregnancy through the vagina. Heavy bleeding is a part of this abortion process.

Side Effects and Risks of the Abortion Pill

According to the Mayo Clinic, side effects of the abortion pill, in addition to heavy vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping, are:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
  • Emotional side effects include relief, loss, sadness, and guilt

 Possible risks of the abortion pill include:

  • Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
  • An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
  • Heavy and prolonged bleeding
  • Digestive system discomfort
  • Infection
  • Fever

How Far Along Are You?

It’s important to determine how far along you are if considering the abortion pill, as it’s only recommended by the FDA for women up to 70 days gestation (70 days or less since the first day of a woman’s last menstrual period). 

Dating your pregnancy through an ultrasound given by a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer is your next step to know if you are eligible for the abortion pill or other pregnancy options.

Schedule a free, confidential pregnancy testing and limited ultrasound appointment to get started and get the clarity you need to move forward in your pregnancy journey. We are here for you along the way.

Tags: Abortion
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