As with any medication, the abortion pill may carry risks that you should be aware of. If you’re considering the abortion pill, it’s important to understand how it works—and what risks or side effects may be involved. While it may seem like a simple solution, the abortion pill is actually a two-step process that affects your body in significant ways.
Before moving forward, it’s wise to learn what to expect and make sure the method is safe and appropriate for your situation.
What Is the Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill, also called medication abortion, involves taking two different medications over a short period of time:
- Mifepristone (first pill): Blocks the hormone progesterone, which is necessary to sustain a pregnancy.
- Misoprostol (second pill): Causes cramping and bleeding to expel the pregnancy tissue from the uterus.
The first pill is typically taken at a clinic or doctor’s office. The second is often taken at home 24–48 hours later.
Who Can Take the Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill is FDA-approved for use up to 10 weeks (70 days) from the start of your last menstrual period. After this point, the risk of complications—including incomplete abortion—increases.
Before taking the abortion pill, it’s important to confirm:
- How far along you are (this can be determined by an ultrasound)
- That the pregnancy is located inside the uterus (to rule out ectopic pregnancy)
- That you don’t have any health conditions that could make the abortion pill unsafe
What Are the Side Effects of the Abortion Pill?
Common side effects include:
- Cramping and heavy bleeding
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache or dizziness
- Fever or chills
- Diarrhea
These symptoms usually begin after taking the second pill and may last for several hours to a few days.
What Are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?
While serious complications are less common, they can happen. According to the Mayo Clinic and other medical sources, risks include:
Risk: Incomplete Abortion
The pregnancy isn’t fully expelled, and further medical treatment or surgical intervention may be needed. Risk increases if you are closer to or greater than 10 weeks pregnant.
Risk: Heavy Bleeding
It’s normal to bleed more than a period, but seek emergency care if you:
- Soak through 2 or more pads per hour
- Bleed heavily for 12+ hours in a row
- Pass blood clots larger than a golf ball
Risk: Infection
Symptoms of infection may include:
- Muscle aches
- Fever
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
Infections can become serious quickly. If you feel unwell or have symptoms that don’t improve, contact a provider or go to the ER.
Can You Talk to Someone Before Making a Decision?
Yes—and we encourage it. It’s okay to have questions. It’s okay to feel unsure. At Ivy Women’s Center, we’re here to give you clear, compassionate information so you can make a confident, informed choice.
We offer:
- Free pregnancy testing
- Limited ultrasounds to confirm how far along you are and rule out ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage
- Supportive space to talk through your options—with no pressure, ever
Call or text (440) 539-0206 or schedule a confidential appointment using the link below.