A medical abortion, commonly referred to as the “abortion pill,” is a method to terminate a pregnancy using drugs.
If you are unexpectedly pregnant, you may be looking at medical abortion as an option. It’s critical to get all the facts regarding the abortion pill, as it is a serious medical procedure.
Want to discuss your options in a safe and compassionate environment? Reach out to us at Grace Women’s Care Center. We’re here to provide free pregnancy services and give you detailed information and resources.
Keep reading to learn more about medical abortion.
How Does A Medical Abortion Work?
A medical abortion uses a series of drugs to end a pregnancy. First, mifepristone is taken at a doctor’s office or clinic. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, which causes the pregnancy to end. About 24-48 hours later, women take misoprostol at home, which causes contractions and expels the pregnancy and related tissue out of the uterus.
Medical abortion is FDA-approved through 10 weeks gestation (how far along you are.)
What Are The Side Effects And Risks?
Women will experience abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding, but other side effects include headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fever, and chills.
As with any major medical procedure, the abortion pill isn’t without risks. The risks of medical abortion may include:
- Infection
- Fever
- Incomplete abortion (which may require a surgical abortion)
- An ongoing pregnancy (if the drugs don’t work)
- Digestive discomfort
Before You Seek Out A Medical Abortion
It’s essential that you get key details about your pregnancy before seeking a medical abortion. For instance, you will want to know how far along you are to see if you qualify, as taking the abortion pill past ten weeks can lead to complications.
An ultrasound unlocks these details. It also reveals the location and viability of your pregnancy, which will rule out ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage (an abortion would not be the right procedure in these cases, and you would require immediate medical intervention).
Grace Women’s Care Center offers free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and referrals to safeguard your health and wellness. Call us on our 24-hour helpline at 305-547-9342. You can also make an appointment online.