The abortion pill (known as medical abortion) is a two-step process that comes with risks to consider. Know what to expect to make an informed decision about using the abortion pill. Some women should not move forward for safety reasons—determine if you are eligible. You owe it to yourself to learn as much information as possible.
Know What to Expect
The abortion pill (medical abortion) is a two-step process using two different abortion drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. The FDA only approves this form of abortion for women through 10 weeks of pregnancy.
First, women take mifepristone, which blocks the hormone progesterone and causes the lining of the uterus to thin. This drug prevents the embryo or fetus from staying attached to the uterine wall and growing, ending the pregnancy.
Second, misoprostol is taken about 24-48 hours after taking mifepristone. This drug causes the uterus to contract and expel the embryo through the vagina with abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding.
Consider the Risks
You deserve clarity when it comes to understanding the physical risks of a medical abortion (the abortion pill). Risks can vary based on the woman, but they are important to weigh before making up your mind about the abortion pill.
According to the Mayo Clinic, possible risks of taking the abortion pill include the following:
- The body not releasing all pregnancy tissue (fetus and placenta) in the uterus, also called an incomplete abortion. This may require a surgical procedure.
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive symptoms such as upset stomach
Determine if You’re Eligible
Some women should not move forward with a medical abortion for health and safety reasons. This abortion procedure isn’t an option for you if you:
- Are too far along in your pregnancy. You shouldn’t attempt a medical abortion if you’ve been pregnant for more than ten weeks.
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD) currently in place.
- Have a suspected pregnancy outside of the uterus. This is called ectopic pregnancy.
- Have certain medical conditions. These include anemia; some bleeding disorders; chronic adrenal failure; certain heart or blood vessel diseases; severe liver, kidney or lung disease; or an uncontrolled seizure disorder.
- Take a blood thinner or certain steroid medicines.
- Can’t reach a healthcare professional by phone or online, or don’t have access to emergency care.
- Have an allergy to the medicine used in a medical abortion.
Receiving an ultrasound scan is vital to understanding how far along you are, which is one factor in determining if you could be eligible for the abortion pill.
An ultrasound can also confirm viability (whether your pregnancy is progressing with a heartbeat) and the location of your pregnancy (if it’s located within the uterus). It can also alert you of any potential complications as well.
Pregnancy Options Miami offers pregnancy services at no cost, so you can get more answers about your pregnancy and your pregnancy options.
Receive More Clarity
If you are considering abortion for your unexpected pregnancy, there are resources available to help you through the decision-making process.
Pregnancy Options Miami offers no-cost and confidential care in a judgment-free environment. Schedule your appointment with us today to learn more.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.