How does the abortion pill work? The term “abortion pill” generally refers to medication abortion, a method that uses prescription medications to end an early pregnancy. The abortion pill goes by many names including missed period pills, at-home abortion, self-managed abortion, 10-week-after pills, medication, medical, or chemical abortion.
What Medications Are Used?
The standard abortion pill uses two medications:
- Mifepristone
- Misoprostol
Important: The abortion pill is not the same as emergency contraceptives. The FDA issued a warning about abortion by mail and new safety regulations. Your health and safety come first, and Hope’s Pathway Chatham is here to provide medically accurate information about all your pregnancy options so you can make an informed decision.
Step 1: Mifepristone
Mifepristone is taken first. This medication works by blocking progesterone, a hormone that supports pregnancy. Without progesterone, the lining of the uterus begins to break down, and the embryo is starved of the oxygen and nutrients it needs to survive.
People taking mifepristone may or may not notice symptoms. Some experience light bleeding or mild cramping; others do not feel much change until the second medication.
Step 2: Misoprostol
Misoprostol is taken 24–48 hours later, and causes the uterus to contract and expel the embryo through the vagina. This stage usually involves:
- Cramping, sometimes strong
- Bleeding that may be heavier than a period
- Passing clots
- Temporary symptoms like chills, nausea, or diarrhea
Most of the physical process happens within a few hours after taking misoprostol.
When Can I Take the Abortion Pill?
The FDA (Federal Drug Administration) has only approved the abortion pill to be taken within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, therefore an ultrasound is necessary to confirm important details about the pregnancy such as how far along you are and whether the pregnancy is in your uterus (not ectopic). The FDA also requires that the abortion pill be prescribed by a healthcare provider who meets certain qualifications, and they do not recommend abortion pills be purchased online as their safety and efficacy cannot be ensured. Additionally, many telehealth providers do not provide an ultrasound before administering the medication.
Are There Risks to Taking the Abortion Pill?
There are risks and potential side effects to any medication you take. Besides the side effects listed above, there is a potential risk of severe vaginal bleeding that may require medical treatment, and even infection that can require antibiotics. There is also the risk of an incomplete abortion requiring medical follow-up to confirm and surgical intervention to remove the remaining tissue.
Emotional and psychological side effects are also possible, including anxiety, fear, and anger. Abortion is a permanent decision that terminates a pregnancy. While some women feel immediate relief after an abortion, others feel difficult emotions days, weeks, months, or even years later.
Can I Reverse the Effects of the Abortion Pill?
The simple answer is yes! If done in time. There is an effective process called abortion pill reversal that can reverse the effects of a medical abortion. This may allow you to continue your pregnancy, but time is of the essence. If only the first dose of the abortion pill has been taken, it may be possible to continue your pregnancy. Contact the 24/7 Abortion Pill Reversal hotline at 1-877-558-0333 immediately to be connected with a trusted medical professional nearby who can help you take the next step toward reversing the abortion pill.
Bottom line: If you are considering the abortion pill or struggling to cope with your pregnancy, please contact our center to talk to a trained advocate who can walk you through your potential next steps and offer some peace of mind. We never want you to make a decision about your pregnancy because of pressure or desperation, without knowing a better option may exist for you. You are not alone.
Hope’s Pathway Chatham offers free and confidential support to help you confirm your pregnancy and explore all your pregnancy options. Our services are always confidential, always judgment-free, and always at no cost to you. Call, text, or schedule your free appointment online. You can also chat with one of our nurses 24/7 by visiting our website.