If you are considering a chemical or medical abortion – also called the abortion pill – then it’s important you know all your options. Our caring and trained staff at LifeTalk Resource Center is here to help you make the best decision for you and your baby. If you need a free pregnancy test, ultrasound, or someone to talk to, schedule a free appointment today.
What is the Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill is a combination of two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone, the first drug, terminates the pregnancy. It acts by preventing progesterone from being produced in the mother’s body. The uterine lining breaks down without progesterone, and the fetus is starved of oxygen and nutrients.
Misoprostol, the second drug, is taken a day pr more later. It causes the womb to contract, resulting in cramping, bleeding, and the passing of the fetus, similar to a miscarriage.
How far along the pregnancy is determines the success rate of the abortion pill. The further along the pregnancy is, the less effective the abortion pill is in terminating a pregnancy.
Effects of the Abortion Pill
All people who have a medical abortion feel lower abdomen pain/cramping and vaginal bleeding. The pain is severe enough that strong painkillers are required in certain circumstances. Most misoprostol abortions are completed in 4 hours or less, but others take longer. Even if the abortion is complete, light vaginal bleeding or spotting can last until the next menstrual period.
Possible Side Effects of the Abortion Pill
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fever/Chills
Abortion Pill Risks and Complications
Unavoidable or frequently occurring abortion pill risks include:
- Retained products of conception – where the pregnancy is no longer growing, but some of the pregnancy tissue is left behind in the womb.
- Infection of the womb or fallopian tubes.
- Unpredictable, irregular, or prolonged bleeding after the abortion.
- Lower abdominal pain and cramping.
- Continuing pregnancy.
- Hemorrhage – very heavy bleeding.
- Undiagnosed ectopic pregnancy.
- Psychological problems.
Can The Abortion Pill Be Reversed?
Yes. The abortion pill is less likely to work if you take the first drug but not the second. Also, if early enough, a healthcare provider can administer progesterone to the mother to reverse the abortion.
So, if you’ve started the abortion pill procedure but have second thoughts, call us or 877-558-0333 immediately to discuss your best next actions and what to expect.
Thinking about abortion? Your next steps.
Make an appointment with us. You’ll learn about your medical and legal options and get your required ultrasound free. You can also get a free, confidential pregnancy test and other pregnancy resources. We are here for you.