Abortion Pill FAQs
What Is The Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill, also known as a medication or chemical abortion, is a method used to end pregnancy. If you’re considering this option, it’s important to understand the potential side effects, what to expect during the process, legal restrictions, and recovery time. Knowing how far along you are and whether you’re medically eligible for the abortion pill is a key part of making an informed decision. We're here to help you get the information you need in a caring, supportive environment.
During your visit, we can confirm the viability of your pregnancy with an ultrasound. This ultrasound also helps confirm that your pregnancy is located in the uterus (intrauterine) and can detect potential complications, such as an ectopic pregnancy.
Who Can Take The Abortion Pill?
Women with certain medical conditions, who have allergies to drugs used in the abortion pill regime, who have an ectopic pregnancy, or who are more than ten weeks pregnant are not eligible for the abortion pill.
The abortion pill is ineffective in the case of an ectopic pregnancy, which is a pregnancy that occurs within the fallopian tube or somewhere else in a woman’s body other than the uterus.
An ectopic pregnancy, if left untreated, can cause the fallopian tube to rupture, resulting in lethal bleeding and hemorrhaging. Abortions are not used to treat ectopic pregnancies. A separate surgical procedure is necessary to treat an ectopic pregnancy.
Like any drug, weight, hormones, allergies, health conditions, diseases, and the type of pregnancy can cause side effects to vary. If you have taken the first dose of the abortion pill and change your mind, contact the abortion pill reversal network to learn more about your options.
Note: If you are Rh-negative, be sure to tell your healthcare provider so you can get the necessary treatment after an abortion.
What Should I Do Before Getting Abortion Pills?
Before you take the abortion pill, it is important to confirm the following:
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Viability of the pregnancy (able to continue on its own or if you are at risk for a natural miscarriage)
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The location of the pregnancy (and if it’s intrauterine or ectopic)
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Your estimated due date or how far along you are
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Confirm your Rh factor
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Remove IUD if needed
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Side effects, what to expect, and drugs used in the abortion pill regime (to avoid potential allergic reactions or complications)
Common side effects and risks include cramping, contractions, heavy bleeding that can last up to sixteen to thirty days, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, infection, blood clots, dizziness, and abdominal pain.
If the abortion pills do not terminate the pregnancy, a procedure may be necessary. Other complications can occur, such as an overgrowth of the uterine lining, muscle pain or stiffness, and more. Contact 911 if you have complications from the abortion pill.