When you’re trying to make sense of an unexpected pregnancy, it can feel like every option comes with unanswered questions. The abortion pill is often described as a simple or early option, but like any medical process, it comes with risks and side effects.
At Choices Medical Services, free and confidential pregnancy services are available, including pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and options consultations. A qualified healthcare professional can help answer questions about the abortion pill and provide clarity.
Schedule a free and confidential appointment today.
What the Abortion Pill Involves
The abortion pill, also known as a medical abortion, involves taking two different drugs:
- Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone the body needs to continue a pregnancy
- Misoprostol, taken 24 to 48 hours later, causes the uterus to contract and bleed vaginally, expelling the pregnancy
This method is FDA-approved for use through 10 weeks of gestation. Knowing how far along a pregnancy is helps clarify medical guidelines and safety considerations.
How Your Body May Respond
The abortion pill causes changes in the body as the process begins. Common side effects include:
- Vaginal bleeding that may be heavier than a typical period
- Abdominal cramping that can range from mild to intense
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Headache, dizziness, or fatigue
- Fever or chills for a short period
While these effects are expected, the experience can vary significantly.
When Medical Care May Be Needed
In addition to side effects, there are possible risks that are important to understand before considering abortion pills. These may include:
- Heavy or prolonged bleeding that requires medical care, such as soaking through two pads an hour for two consecutive hours, or passing clots larger than the size of a lemon
- Incomplete abortion, when pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus
- Ongoing pregnancy if the drug is not effective
- Infection, which may cause fever, severe pain, or abnormal discharge
If you did not get an ultrasound scan prior to the procedure, there’s a risk of an undiagnosed ectopic pregnancy, which cannot be treated with abortion pills, and can be life-threatening
Because some complications may not be immediately noticeable, follow-up care is important for protecting your health. Additionally, some women should not take the abortion pill due to certain health conditions, medications, or medical histories.
Why Follow-Up Care Matters
An ultrasound helps clarify key health information about a pregnancy, including gestational age, viability (meaning whether the pregnancy is developing), and whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus. By ruling out conditions such as ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage, an ultrasound plays an important role in protecting your health and supporting educated decision-making.
Support as You Consider Your Next Steps
If you’re seeking clarity about your pregnancy or have questions about the abortion pill, you can schedule a free and confidential appointment to talk one-on-one with a caring professional at Choices Medical Services.
Reach out today to explore your options and better understand your next steps in a supportive, nonjudgmental setting.
Choices Medical Services does not provide or refer for abortions.