If you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, maybe you’re curious about how the abortion pill works.
While abortion may seem like a simple option, abortion of any kind is a serious medical procedure and can lead to unwanted physical and mental health effects.
Continue reading to gain a better understanding of how the abortion pill works and how to protect your health and future.
What is the Abortion Pill?
A medical abortion, commonly referred to as the abortion pill, is actually two drugs that are prescribed to a woman to terminate her pregnancy.
Mifepristone is used first to block the hormone progesterone and thin the lining of the uterus.
Then, misoprostol is taken to cause uterine contractions and the expulsion of the pregnancy through the vagina.
After taking the abortion pill, bleeding, cramping, and digestive discomfort are expected.
Contact your medical provider immediately if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Heavy bleeding – soaking two or more pads an hour for two hours
- Severe abdominal pain or back pain
- Fever lasting more than 24 hours
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
The Importance of Proper Medical Oversight
When considering an abortion, proper medical oversight is essential for the protection of your health and safety.
Meeting with a medical provider for an ultrasound scan and thoroughly discussing your risk factors can help you make an informed decision.
An ultrasound will determine the age and location of your pregnancy. You will not qualify for a medical abortion if you have an ectopic pregnancy or if your pregnancy is beyond ten weeks.
Additionally, you may not be eligible for an abortion if you:
- Have an IUD (intrauterine device)
- Have certain medical conditions, including bleeding disorders, heart and blood vessel disease, liver disease, kidney disease, lung disease, or severe seizure disorders
- Take a blood thinner or certain steroid medications
- Can’t make follow-up visits to your provider or don’t have access to emergency care
- Have an allergy to the medicine used
You should be aware of the danger of the abortion pills advertised online. Not only is it unsafe to have an abortion without in-person medical care, but you can not guarantee the dosage and quality of the drugs that you order online.
Pre-abortion Consultation
We want to help you navigate this journey at Palm Beach Women’s Clinic.
You can discuss your concerns with the trusted medical staff and receive a free lab-quality pregnancy test and ultrasound scan. Learning more about your pregnancy can help you better understand your options.
We are here to support you. Contact us today for a confidential appointment.
