No one is ready for the emotions that come with an unplanned pregnancy. The news can feel overwhelming, scary, and even confusing when it comes to next steps. You are not in this alone. Know the facts about the abortion pill before moving forward with your pregnancy decision. There are serious risks and side effects to consider and understand, so you can make an informed decision for your future.
What Is the Abortion Pill?
There are two types of abortion procedures, medical abortion and surgical abortion. Each one terminates a pregnancy with different methods. The abortion pill is also referred as medical or medication abortion.
Medication abortion starts at a medical or doctor’s office and is then completed at home. Women can have a medication abortion up to 10 weeks of pregnancy.
When searching for abortion pill information, you may see options to buy them online. Do not order the pill over the internet! These online pills are not FDA compliant, and the origin and quality is unknown. It can be very dangerous to your body and can come with significant complications. The abortion pill should always be prescribed by a medical professional and followed up with a doctor once completed.
The Abortion Pill Process
The abortion pill is not just one pill. A medication abortion consists of two different abortion drugs: Mifepristone and Misoprostol.
Mifepristone is the first pill or drug taken in the abortion process. This pill blocks the hormone progesterone, which causes the uterus lining to thin and prevents the embryo from implanting or growing. Misoprostol is the second abortion pill used in the medication abortion process. This pill causes the uterus to contract and expel the embryo vaginally.
The first pill is taken at your doctor’s office or medical clinic, and the second pill at home about 24-48 hours later. Women should follow up with a doctor about a week later (FDA). A doctor will make sure the abortion is complete and that there are no complications.
Understand the Risks
Medication abortion can come with serious risks and side effects. You may have heard that the process is easy and painless, but it’s not quite that simple.
The Mayo Clinic shares risks of this medication abortion:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
The Mayo Clinic also lists the side effects of a medication abortion:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Abdominal cramping
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Know All Your Options
Though you may be thinking about taking the abortion pill, remember it’s not your only option. Before making your pregnancy decision, confirm your pregnancy with medical-grade pregnancy testing and an ultrasound. All of our services are free and confidential.
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment today to talk about all your options. Our medical professionals at Alabama Pregnancy Test Center are here to answer any of your questions.