What is the Abortion Pill?
February 5th, 2023
Although “abortion pill” is the popular name given to this procedure by abortion clinics, it is not one pill, and it is a much more involved process than you might think. The “abortion pill” is a medication abortion, and it’s important you understand what it is and the potential risks before you take it.
If you are too far along in your pregnancy, a medical abortion may not be an option for you.
Reasons why a medical abortion may not be an option:
If you have been pregnant for more than nine weeks (after the start of your last period). Some types of medical abortion aren't done after seven weeks of pregnancy. After this time period, surgical abortion becomes the abortion option
If you have an intrauterine device (IUD)
If you have an ectopic pregnancy
If you have certain medical conditions
If you take blood thinners
If you can’t make follow up appointments
If you are allergic to the medical abortion pills
Getting a medication abortion may involve up to two office visits and may require a surgical procedure if the medical abortion is incomplete. If you order the abortion pill online, there is a risk that it could arrive too late to be effective or could have the incorrect dosage and pose health concerns.
A medical abortion is not the “morning-after pill,” which is a form of emergency contraceptive and not the same thing as an abortion.
How does the Abortion Pill Work?
The “abortion pill” is actually two pills. One pill ends the pregnancy, and the other pill causes cramping so your body expels the pregnancy. It’s important to have an ultrasound before you have a medication abortion. If you take the abortion pill at the wrong time, it can be ineffective. The ultrasound determines if you have a viable intrauterine pregnancy, and it can rule out an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage. If you have an ectopic pregnancy, the abortion pill won’t impact the pregnancy, and your health will be at risk. The ultrasound measures how far along you are in your pregnancy and if it’s viable. A viable intrauterine pregnancy means the pregnancy is in the right location and a heartbeat is detected.
What are the Risks?
Potential risks of medical abortion include:
An incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
Heavy and prolonged bleeding
Infection
Fever
Digestive system discomfort
What should I do if I think I’m Pregnant?
We believe that knowledge is power, and being equipped with all the facts is crucial to improving medical care for women. At our clinic, we can confirm your pregnancy with confidential, no-cost pregnancy testing. If you receive a positive test result, our credentialed nurse sonographer can also perform a no-cost ultrasound to tell you how far along your pregnancy is.
Please note that we do not offer or refer for abortions. However, we are committed to providing evidence-based medical education about abortion procedures and risks. We truly care for you and your health. Contact us today to make your confidential appointment to discuss your options.
Cited Sources: Mayo Clinic