Before taking any medication, it’s important to understand how that medication might interact with your body through side effects. The abortion pill is no different. 

While it may seem like a simple enough medication, you deserve to know about the potential side effects so you can make a fully-informed decision.

What is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill, also called a medical abortion, medication abortion, and chemical abortion, is a two-part drug medication used to terminate an early pregnancy.

It is only designed for use during the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. After 10 weeks, a surgical abortion is your only option for pregnancy termination.

The first drug in the abortion pill is called mifepristone, and it ends the pregnancy by blocking your womb’s ability to absorb progesterone.

The second drug is called misoprostol, and it expels the pregnancy tissue by causing bleeding and cramping of the uterus.

What are the Side Effects of the Abortion Pill?

As with any medication, there are potential side effects you can experience during a medication abortion. The Mayo Clinic lists the following:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Chills
• Diarrhea
• Headache

If any of these persist for more than a couple of days after your abortion is complete, you should seek medical attention immediately. Prolonged side effects can lead to more serious risks and health conditions down the road.

Before Taking the Abortion Pill

Before taking the abortion pill, it’s important to confirm vital details about your pregnancy. Scheduling an appointment for an ultrasound will help you gain the information you need to know if you are eligible for the abortion pill and alert you to any health risks.

First, an ultrasound will tell you where the pregnancy is located. Ectopic pregnancies implant outside of the uterus (most often in the Fallopian tubes) and not only are non-viable but also pose dangerous risks to your health. You’ll need to seek medical attention immediately.

Second, an ultrasound will tell you the gestational age of your pregnancy. Remember, this is important because you’re only eligible for the abortion pill through the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. Taking it later in pregnancy can result in an incomplete abortion.

Finally, an ultrasound will reveal if you have a viable pregnancy or if you have naturally miscarried. It’s possible to receive a positive pregnancy test only to later learn that you have had a miscarriage.

We offer free ultrasounds at our pregnancy center so you can get the answers you need before making this important decision. Schedule your appointment today.