What Are the Side Effects of the Abortion Pill?

Understanding how the abortion pill works, as well as its possible side effects and risks, can help you make a fully informed decision about your pregnancy.

Before making a decision, confirming your pregnancy with a pregnancy test and ultrasound is key, since these details can impact your options. 

Ascend Women’s Center offers free pregnancy services and abortion information consultations if you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy and want to learn more about your options. 

You don’t have to figure this out alone. 

Schedule your confidential appointment today.

How The Abortion Pill Works 

The abortion pill is a two-drug process. The first drug, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone, which prevents the pregnancy from growing and thins the uterine lining. 

The second drug, called misoprostol, is taken 24 to 48 hours later and causes the uterus to contract, which expels the pregnancy through cramping and bleeding. 

The abortion pill is only approved for use through ten weeks of gestation according to the FDA.

The Side Effects of The Abortion Pill

As the body responds to these drugs, you may experience side effects. Cramping and bleeding, however, will always occur during this process.

Some other side effects include:

• Vomiting
• Fever
• Upset stomach
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Chills

There are also emotional side effects to be aware of, which can show up either immediately or later on. Studies have shown that the abortion experience can directly contribute to mental health problems for at least some women.

The Possible Risks and Complications

There are more serious risks to be aware of after a medical abortion that may require medical attention to prevent complications.

Some risks include:

• An incomplete abortion
• Heavy bleeding that won’t stop
• Digestive issues
• Allergic reactions
• Infection

Learn More About Your Options  

We understand how overwhelming it can feel to learn you are unexpectedly pregnant. You might feel as if you don’t have options due to your financial circumstances, or perhaps you don’t have support. 

We want you to know there are resources available to support you. We will share this information with you during your consultation, where you will learn the facts, considerations, and risks that come with parenting, adoption, and abortion. 

In your consultation, we will also provide you with a free pregnancy test and ultrasound, which will give you information about the location, how far along you are, and the viability of the pregnancy. 

We give you the safe and supportive care you deserve.

Contact us to make your appointment. 

Ascend Women’s Center does not provide or refer for abortions.

All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.