Facts About Medical Abortion You Might Not Know

Understanding how a medical abortion works and knowing the facts can help you protect your health and make an informed decision about your pregnancy.

Alpha Clinics can provide you with accurate and evidence-based information about abortion, your other options, as well as no-cost medical-grade pregnancy testing followed by a limited OB ultrasound to confirm your pregnancy details.

Get in touch to make your confidential appointment today and get the support you deserve.

1. Medical Abortion Involves Two Drugs

Despite having a singular name, the abortion pill typically involves two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol.

Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone needed for a pregnancy to continue developing. Misoprostol is taken 24 to 48 hours after and causes the uterus to contract, resulting in cramping and bleeding as the pregnancy is expelled.

Side effects of these drugs include vomiting, headache, upset stomach, chills, and fever. Side effects can vary from woman to woman.

2. There Is an FDA-Approved Time Limit

The FDA has approved the abortion pill through ten weeks of gestation. Taking the abortion pill beyond this timeframe may increase the chances of complications.

A pregnancy test can detect the presence of the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), but it cannot tell you how far along your pregnancy is.

This is why an ultrasound before any pregnancy decision is so important, as it can confirm gestational age. Alpha Clinics offers free limited OB ultrasounds to give you a clearer picture of your pregnancy.

3. The FDA Warns Against Ordering the Abortion Pill Online

You may have seen websites offering the abortion pill for purchase online. However, the FDA warns against buying the abortion pill online.

Ordering drugs from an unverified source can make it difficult to know their source, quality, and storage conditions. Medical oversight is also essential since there may be pre-existing health conditions or details surrounding the pregnancy that put you at risk.

4. You May Have an Option If You Change Your Mind

If you have taken mifepristone but have not yet taken misoprostol and you are reconsidering your decision, you may have another option. Abortion Pill Reversal (APR) is a process that uses progesterone after mifepristone has been taken.

Although success is not guaranteed, some studies report reversal rates of 64% to 68% when progesterone treatment is started within 24 to 72 hours of mifepristone. Call the Abortion Pill Rescue Network immediately at 1-877-558-0333 to get help.

5. Medical Abortion Can Have Serious Complications

Complications can occur after taking the abortion pill; these can include:

• Incomplete abortion when pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus and may require additional treatment
• Infection
• Heavy bleeding that will not stop
• Allergic reaction

6. Abortion Can Have Emotional Effects

Every woman’s experience after an abortion is different. Some women report relief, while others experience grief, sadness, guilt, or regret.

One study found that women’s experiences varied, and women with pre-existing mental health conditions may have a greater risk of mental health difficulties afterward.

If you are considering abortion, taking time to understand your feelings and concerns and seeking supportive, non-judgmental care can help you.

Get Accurate Information at Alpha Clinics

Alpha Clinics is here to provide confidential support, answer your questions, and help you understand important details about your pregnancy through our no-cost pregnancy services and educational resources.

Contact Alpha Clinics today to schedule your appointment. You don’t have to face this alone.