From Our Blog
What is the Abortion Pill?
If you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and considering termination, the abortion pill is likely at the forefront of your mind. From understanding how the pill works to knowing if it’s the right choice for you, it can be a challenge to gather reliable information on the topic.
Thankfully, Woman’s New Life Clinic is here to help answer commonly asked questions related to the abortion pill so that you can make the choice that’s best for you!
What is the abortion pill and how does it work?
Also known as a medical abortion, the abortion pill uses two drugs to end a pregnancy.
The first medication, Mifepristone, is used to prevent the body from producing progesterone. This will deprive the pregnancy of the nourishment and support it needs to survive. Misoprostol will then be taken to help expel the pregnancy tissue from the womb through a process of cramping and contractions.
When can I take the abortion pill?
According to the FDA, the abortion pill should only be taken within the first 70 days of gestation. If you take the pill after this point, it may not be effective and could result in an incomplete abortion, which will likely require surgery to remove the retained pregnancy tissue.
To determine the gestational age of your pregnancy and to understand the abortion options available to you, schedule an appointment for an ultrasound scan today!
Where does a medical abortion take place?
While the first medication, Mifepristone, may be administered in your abortion provider’s office, Misoprostol is typically given to the patient to be taken at home, where the pregnancy tissue will be expelled.
What are the side effects of the pill?
When taking the abortion pill, you should expect cramping and bleeding as the pregnancy tissue is passed. You may also experience additional side effects, such as nausea, fever, chills, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and exhaustion.
Is the pill associated with severe health risks?
In addition to these side effects, the abortion pill is also associated with severe health risks, such as sepsis, infection, and hemorrhaging.
What steps should I take before deciding if the abortion pill is right for me?
If you’re unsure of what to do regarding an unplanned pregnancy, remember that it’s okay to take the time you need to gather information and learn about the many resources available to you. In fact, the more you know, the more confident you will feel as you make your final decision.
Before deciding if the abortion pill is right for you, we recommend taking these important steps:
- Confirm your pregnancy with lab-quality pregnancy testing
- Get an ultrasound scan to confirm the age, location, and viability of your pregnancy
- Undergo STD/STI testing to ensure that you do not have an infection that will spread during your abortion
- Gather resources and information on all of your options
- Talk to a qualified medical professional
That sounds like a lot — we know — but the staff at Woman’s New Life Clinic is here to help! We provide free pregnancy testing, free ultrasound scans, free professional counseling, and low-cost STD/STI testing and treatment.