A medical abortion, sometimes called a chemical abortion or the “abortion pill”, uses a specific combination of drugs intended to end an early pregnancy. Learning how this process works, what the physical experience may involve, and what risks to be aware of is an important part of protecting your health.
At Choices Medical Services, our focus is on providing clarity before any decisions are made. A medical confirmation is an essential first step, as it determines whether a pregnancy is viable, how far along you are (gestational age), and whether it is safely located in the uterus.
We invite you to schedule a free, confidential appointment for a lab-quality pregnancy test and limited ultrasound, where our team can answer questions in a professional, supportive setting.
What is the Abortion Pill?
A medical abortion typically involves two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone works by blocking progesterone, a hormone necessary for maintaining the uterine lining during pregnancy. When progesterone is disrupted, the pregnancy can no longer develop and will end.
Misoprostol is taken 24 to 48 hours after the mifepristone. This drug causes the uterus to contract and empty, expelling the pregnancy tissue. Cramping and vaginal bleeding are expected as the body responds and are more intense than a typical menstrual period. The timing and severity of symptoms can vary from person to person.
Why an Ultrasound is Necessary First
Before taking any abortion drugs, an ultrasound is a critical safety measure.
An ultrasound can:
- Confirm pregnancy location, ensuring it is in the uterus and not ectopic (commonly in the fallopian tube), a condition the abortion pill cannot treat and which requires urgent medical care.
- Assess viability, including whether a fetal heartbeat is present or if a natural miscarriage may already be occurring.
- Determine gestational age, which is essential because medical abortion is only FDA-approved for use within 10 weeks of gestation.
Having this information helps reduce medical risk and supports informed decision-making.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Medical abortion can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, fatigue, or digestive discomfort. More serious risks may include heavy or prolonged bleeding (soaking two full-size pads per hour for two consecutive hours), infection, or an incomplete abortion, where pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus and may require further medical treatment.
Understanding what to expect and what may signal the need for follow-up or emergency care helps you protect your health throughout the process.
Next Steps for Your Health
Before making any pregnancy-related decision, you deserve accurate information about your body and your options. Choices Medical Services provides free lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and options counseling in a professional environment.
We are here to offer factual education and compassionate care so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. Contact us today to schedule your confidential appointment.
Choices Medical Services does not provide or refer for abortions.