What are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?

If you are in the first trimester of an unexpected pregnancy, you may be considering the abortion pill, also called a medical or chemical abortion.

The combination of drugs is FDA-approved to end a pregnancy through 10 weeks of gestation (70 days). While this may seem like a convenient option for an early, unplanned pregnancy, there are risks to be aware of so you can make an informed decision.

Read on to learn more about it, and schedule a free appointment at Positive Options to confirm your pregnancy and safeguard your health.

How Does the Abortion Pill Work?

The abortion pill is a two-drug regimen typically using mifepristone and misoprostol.  Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary to maintain pregnancy. Without this hormone, the uterine lining breaks down, and the pregnancy ends.

About 24-48 hours after taking mifepristone, the second drug, misoprostol, is taken. This drug makes the uterus contract, leading to abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding to expel the pregnancy and related tissue.

What Are the Risks and Side Effects of the Abortion Pill? 

According to the Mayo Clinic, potential risks of medical abortion include:

• An incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by a surgical procedure

• An ongoing pregnancy

• Heavy and prolonged bleeding

• Infection

• Fever

• Digestive system discomfort

Due to potential serious complications, including life-threatening bleeding, you must have access to emergency medical care if taking the abortion pill.  

Medical abortion causes vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping. Other side effects that can occur include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Fever

• Chills

• Diarrhea

• Headache

How Do I Know if the Abortion Pill Is an Option for Me?

Since the abortion pill is only an option in the first ten weeks of pregnancy, it is important to accurately confirm your pregnancy’s gestational age, rather than relying solely on the date of your last missed period.

Upon assessment, you may be eligible for a no-cost ultrasound at our center. This can confirm your pregnancy’s gestational age, location, and the presence of a heartbeat.

Contact us today to schedule a free appointment and receive accurate information about your pregnancy, so you can feel confident in your next steps.