From Our Blog
What Are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?
Abortion is a serious medical procedure, and it is important to know all of the risks before having one. Like any other procedure, you deserve the facts before making this decision.
We’ll walk you through what the abortion pill consists of, as well as the possible risks associated with taking this medication regimen.
What Is the Abortion Pill?
A medical abortion, otherwise known as the “abortion pill,” consists of two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone works by blocking progesterone and preventing the embryo from remaining attached to the uterine lining. Misoprostol causes uterine contractions and expels the embryo and pregnancy tissue through the vagina.
The abortion pill is only approved for women within the first ten weeks of pregnancy. Surgical abortion ends pregnancies that are further along.
What Are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?
Heavy Bleeding
Though bleeding is common during a medical abortion, you must seek immediate medical treatment if you are bleeding enough to soak through two sanitary pads an hour.
Sometimes, heavy bleeding can indicate an incomplete abortion, which is when some of the remaining pregnancy tissue is left behind in the uterus. In this case, you will need a surgical abortion to remove the tissue.
Infection
Sometimes, an incomplete abortion can cause an infection. Signs of an infection include:
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Fever
- Pelvic pain
- Fast heartbeat
- Severe stomach pain
Fever
If you have a fever of 100.4 degrees or higher following a medical abortion, you should seek treatment immediately. A fever can be a sign of infection or other serious problems.
Septic Shock
Septic shock is very dangerous and requires immediate medical treatment. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you must seek medical attention:
- Severe pain
- Heavy bleeding
- Shaking with chills
- Cool, pale arms and legs
- Rapid, pounding heart rate
- Rapid breathing with shortness of breath
- Unusually high or low body temperature
- Low blood pressure, particularly when standing
- Inability to urinate
- Feelings of confusion or restlessness
- Fatigue
What if I Have More Questions?
If you have more questions about the abortion pill and the risks associated with this procedure, Woman’s New Life Clinic is here to help! We offer a safe, welcoming space to have all of your questions answered.
When facing an unplanned pregnancy, it can be difficult to know where to turn. We are here for you with professional medical and counseling services! Contact us today to schedule an appointment.