There are known side effects that can occur after taking the abortion pill.
While some are minor and do not last long, other side effects or symptoms can be an indicator that you are having serious health complications that require medical intervention.
Whether you recently used the abortion pill or are considering using the abortion pill, it’s important to know the signs that can indicate serious health complications after an abortion.
Keep reading to learn more and find out how you can get more information and help.
How the Abortion Pill Works
Understanding how the abortion pill works is the first step in understanding the process and potential complications.
The abortion pill, also known as medical abortion, is actually a series of drugs used to terminate a healthy pregnancy.
The first drug used is called mifepristone, and it causes the pregnancy to detach from your uterine wall and stop growing.
Misoprostol is then used, causing your uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy from your body.
Knowing the age of your pregnancy at the time of your medical abortion is vital, as the FDA advises that attempting to use the abortion pill after 10 weeks of pregnancy can increase the risk of an incomplete abortion, which is the primary complication that leads to health emergencies and the need for follow-up medical intervention.
Signs of Serious Complications
Cramping and spotting are usually expected after using the abortion pill.
However, some symptoms can indicate that an incomplete abortion has occurred, and follow-up medical care is required.
These symptoms can include:
- Soaking a pad every hour
- Passing large blood clots
- Lower abdominal or pelvic cramping (not improving with time)
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Rapid heart rate (more than 100 bpm)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Low blood pressure
- Fever
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or feel that something is not right with your recovery, contact your healthcare provider or go to the nearest emergency room.
Keep in mind that an incomplete abortion is a serious medical condition that requires professional intervention from healthcare providers; do not attempt to self-diagnose or self-treat.
Get the Facts You Need
If you are considering a medical abortion and trying to get all the facts you can, Palm Beach Women’s Clinic is here to help.
We provide free pregnancy test confirmation and follow-up ultrasounds to determine the age of your pregnancy and the options available to you. Our trained staff can also answer your questions and talk through your concerns.
Contact us today to schedule your free and confidential appointment.