It sounds simple and discreet, doesn’t it? Take a pill, and your “troubles” are over. But any abortion, including the abortion pill, is a serious medical decision with the potential for physical and emotional consequences. We’re glad you’re asking about it.
A Medical Abortion
The abortion pill method is a form of medical abortion. It is also known as a chemical or medication abortion because you take drugs to end a pregnancy.
The abortion pill involves taking two drugs over a 24-to 48-hour period. The FDA highly regulates the first drug, mifepristone. Only certified providers can prescribe it.
Mifepristone blocks progesterone from reaching the uterus. Progesterone is required for every pregnancy to grow and develop, and without it, the pregnancy cannot continue.
The second drug, misoprostol, causes bleeding and contractions to remove the pregnancy from the body. Research has found that some women experience incredible pain after taking this drug.
Can Anyone Use the Abortion Pill Method?
The Mayo Clinic lists the following reasons why the abortion pill may not be an option for you:
- You are too far along in your pregnancy. The Mayo Clinic suggests using this method through 11 weeks. However, the FDA has approved the use of the drugs through 10 weeks of pregnancy only.
- You have an intrauterine device (IUD) in place.
- The location of your pregnancy is outside of your uterus (an ectopic pregnancy).
- You have certain medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders or severe liver, kidney, or lung disease.
- You take a blood thinner.
- You can’t reach a healthcare professional or don’t have access to emergency care.
- You are allergic to the medicine used.
Are There Any Risks?
In addition to potential side effects like bleeding, cramping, nausea, and fever, there are potential physical and emotional risks. Here are a few to be aware of:
- An incomplete abortion—which means the drugs terminate the pregnancy, but the body doesn’t release all of the pregnancy tissue
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Emotional trauma—which may lead to anxiety or depression
How Can the PRC Help Me?
An ultrasound provides some of the information about your pregnancy that you need, such as its location and how far along you are. Start by taking a free and confidential medical-quality pregnancy test at the PRC.
If your test is positive and you meet specific qualifications, we can provide a free and confidential limited ultrasound exam. Even if you are considering the abortion pill, don’t skip this vital step.
Although we do not perform or refer for abortions, we can provide details about abortion procedures, side effects, and potential risks.
You can schedule a free and confidential appointment online, call us at (580) 536-4040, or text us at 580-875-7794. We’re ready to engage, equip, and empower you to make the best decision for your future.
*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.