The abortion pill is an early pregnancy termination method. It is FDA-approved for use within the first seventy days (10 weeks of pregnancy).
Abortion Pill Background
The abortion pill goes by many names: medical abortion, medication abortion, self-managed abortion, and at-home abortion. It must be prescribed by a licensed physician, so you will not find the abortion pill on drug store shelves.
It was the year 2000 when the FDA first approved the abortion pill, which consists of two drugs: Mifepristone and misoprostol. They are restricted for use only in the first trimester (less than 10 weeks of pregnancy). After this window of time, the abortion pill is no longer an option due to safety concerns.
How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
The abortion pill uses the two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol to end and expel the pregnancy. The drug format can change, meaning you might take it orally, buccally (in the cheek pouch), or vaginally. Dosages and instructions will vary.
No matter how you take the abortion pill, the two drugs work in the same way. Mifepristone ends the pregnancy by stopping it from implanting or progressing. It does this by blocking the pregnancy hormone progesterone.
Misoprostol, typically taken at home 24-48 hours later, triggers contractions to expel the pregnancy from the uterus through abdominal cramping and bleeding.
These drugs may also cause nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, diarrhea, and headache.
What Are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?
According to Mayo Clinic, the risks include:
Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure fails
Heavy and prolonged bleeding
Infection
Fever
Digestive system discomfort
Consider these risks before choosing abortion and take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety. We offer free ultrasounds to rule out any complications like miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, and determine how far along you are.
Choosing abortion is a serious medical decision. Before moving forward, you will want to know all the side effects, risks, and how you will process it emotionally.
Free Pregnancy Support and Services
At Positive Options, you can receive free and confidential pregnancy confirmation services. Our caring team will listen to you and answer any questions you may have.
It’s your health, choice, and future. We’re here to support you as you navigate your pregnancy options. Schedule your free appointment today at one of our four locations.