Are you considering taking the abortion pill after an unexpected pregnancy? Before making this decision, it’s crucial to fully understand how the process works and what side effects you might experience. The abortion pill involves two powerful drugs to terminate a pregnancy, and like any medical procedure, it comes with side effects.
At Turlock Pregnancy and Health Center, we believe every woman deserves to be informed about her options and the potential impacts on her body. Here’s what you need to know about the abortion pill and its possible side effects.
How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
The abortion pill, also called a medication abortion, uses two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. The process begins with mifepristone, which is taken first. This drug blocks the hormone progesterone, which is necessary to sustain a pregnancy.
After the first pill, misoprostol is taken. This second drug causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue through the vagina. The FDA has approved the use of the abortion pill for pregnancies up to 10 weeks gestation.
The process often involves cramping to the stomach area and vaginal bleeding, which can be more intense and painful than expected. A recommended follow-up appointment is needed to confirm that the abortion is complete. If any tissue remains, it could lead to complications such as infection.
Side Effects of the Abortion Pill
While every woman’s experience can be different, the two drugs involved in the abortion pill process can cause a range of side effects. Common side effects include:
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:
- Heavy bleeding — soaking two or more pads an hour for two hours in a row
- Bad pain in the stomach area or pelvis
- Chills or body aches
- Fast heart rate
- Fever that lasts more than four hours or that starts in the days after you take misoprostol.
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Before Scheduling an Abortion
Gathering all the information you need about your health and options is the first step in making any pregnancy decision. At Turlock Pregnancy and Health Center, we offer free pregnancy testing and ultrasounds to help you make an informed choice.
We’re here to provide care, information, and support during this time. Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential appointment and learn more about what’s next.
*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.