What Is the Abortion Pill?

Facing an unexpected pregnancy comes with many questions and thoughts. You may be considering the abortion pill as an option. Before you decide, it’s important to know how the abortion pill works and the possible risks involved.

If you haven’t yet confirmed your pregnancy or learned how far along you are, we invite you to schedule an appointment at Ascend Women’s Center. Our caring team provides free and confidential pregnancy services so you can have the information you need to make a safe and informed choice.

How Does the Abortion Pill Work?

The abortion pill, also called a medical abortion, is a two-drug process used to end an early pregnancy (within the first ten weeks). The first drug, mifepristone, blocks progesterone, a hormone that supports pregnancy. This drug causes the lining of the uterus to thin and the embryo or fetus to detach from the wall of the uterus and end.

The second drug, misoprostol, is taken 24–48 hours later and causes the uterus to contract, leading to vaginal bleeding and cramping that expels the pregnancy.

Although the drugs are typically prescribed in a medical setting, the process usually happens at home, which makes it essential to know the signs of complications and when to seek emergency care.

What Are the Side Effects?

Every woman who takes the abortion pill will experience abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding, since that’s how the process works. Other common side effects may include:

• Headache
• Fever and chills
• Upset stomach
• Vomiting or diarrhea

These side effects and pain may range from mild to intense. Some women have felt unprepared and reported severe pain.

What Are the Risks?

Like any medical procedure, the abortion pill comes with risks. Some possible complications include:

• Incomplete abortion, requiring a surgical procedure
• Heavy or prolonged bleeding
• Infection
• Ongoing pregnancy if the drugs don’t work
• Digestive discomfort

It is also not safe for every woman. Certain health conditions, such as ectopic pregnancy or anemia, may make the abortion pill unsafe. Talk with a medical professional about your health history to ensure your questions are answered. 

You Don’t Have to Decide Alone

Considering abortion is a serious and personal decision, you deserve a safe place to ask questions and understand all your options.

At Ascend Women’s Center, we don’t provide or refer for abortions, but we do offer no-cost pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and confidential support to help you make an informed choice. 

An ultrasound is a critical first step to protect your health and safety when considering an abortion. Take the first step toward confirming your pregnancy and safeguarding your health—schedule your appointment today.

FAQs

How far into pregnancy can I take the abortion pill?

The abortion pill is FDA-approved for up to 10 weeks (70 days) of pregnancy. Taking it later than this increases the chances of complications such as incomplete abortion or heavy bleeding.

Will the abortion pill work if I have an ectopic pregnancy?

No. The abortion pill does not treat ectopic pregnancies, which occur when the pregnancy implants and grows outside the uterus. This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical care. An ultrasound is the only way to rule this out.

What should I do if I have complications after taking the abortion pill?

If you experience heavy bleeding (soaking two or more pads per hour for two hours), severe abdominal pain, fever lasting more than four hours, or foul-smelling discharge, seek emergency medical care.