How does the abortion pill work?

The first step is to learn about the options and resources available to you. It’s important to know the details about medical abortion.

Before the medical abortion process, you will need to sign a liability release. Your abortion provider should give you a guide that explains the medication and termination process. The 3-step abortion pill process includes the following:

Take Mifepristone:

This is a medication used to block progesterone. Progesterone is one of the necessary pregnancy hormones for the uterus’ ability to support a pregnancy. Mifepristone blocks your body’s ability to recognize progesterone by the uterus, causing the uterine lining to break down and ending the pregnancy.

Take Misoprostol:

Misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours after the first medication, specifically so that the uterus contracts and expels the embryo, embryonic sac, and lining of the uterus.

Return to The Clinic:

FDA Guidelines state that you will need to return to the abortion clinic for a follow-up exam 2 weeks after taking misoprostol to confirm whether or not the medical abortion was fully successful (this is a very important step because if the abortion was not fully complete, then any parts left behind could cause an infection and have permanent effects).

What should I expect during the medical abortion process?

As soon as you take the second medication, you should prepare to experience heavy bleeding, cramping, and possibly other symptoms as well.

Although it’s possible to experience some light bleeding before taking the second medication, the majority of heavy bleeding and cramping happens after the second pill. Additional symptoms or side effects you may experience include:

  • Dizziness/headache
  • Weakness
  • Intense cramping
  • Nausea (potentially with vomiting)
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain in addition to cramping
  • Mild fever or chills

How effective is the abortion pill?

The abortion pill is effective the majority of the time. The rate of failure is less than 5%. Successful termination is more likely if you are in the early stages of your pregnancy.

The FDA has approved the use of the abortion pill up to 70 days past the first day of your last period. You have time to make this very important decision. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation of your specific circumstances.

If the abortion attempt fails, you have options:

  • Return to the abortion clinic for a second attempt at a medical abortion,
  • Surgical operation,
  • Continuing the pregnancy.

Know what the abortion laws are according to your state.

If the abortion pill fails, you will need to discuss with the abortion provider what type of treatment is next, adding additional costs.

Questions to ask before taking the abortion pill

Before making a decision, make sure to ask the following questions regarding the abortion pill process:

  • Do I have a confirmed viable intrauterine pregnancy?
  • If the abortion pill does not work, is there an additional charge to complete the abortion surgically?
  • If there is excessive bleeding or problems that require after-hours care, would the abortion provider be able to see me, instead of going to the ER?

Is the Abortion Pill Right for You?

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