Abortion Pill

The Abortion Pill is a chemical/medical abortion used for women within 10 weeks of their last menstrual period. A chemical abortion involves a series of pills to terminate a pregnancy and does not require surgery or anesthesia. The medications (mifepristone and misoprostol) work together to end and expel a pregnancy from a woman’s body. The first pill, mifepristone, is given at a doctor’s office or clinic and blocks a woman’s progesterone, which is the hormone a woman’s body needs to develop a fetus. The second pill, misoprostol, is taken approximately one to two days later and will generate labor contractions. Misoprostol can cause severe cramping and heavy bleeding as the body expels the contents of the uterus.

According to the FDA, some women should not take the first medication if it has been more than 70 days since the first day of their last menstrual period or if she:

• has an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy outside of the uterus)
• has problems with the adrenal glands (the glands near the kidneys)
• is currently being treated with long-term corticosteroid therapy (medications)
• has had an allergic reaction to the drugs used in the abortion pill, or similar drugs
• has bleeding problems or is taking anticoagulant (blood-thinning) drug products
• has inherited porphyria
• has an intrauterine device (IUD) in place (it must be removed before taking the first abortion pill dose)

Women who have taken the first abortion pill dose should follow their healthcare provider’s instructions and be aware of the associated risks and complications that can occur, including:

• sustained fever, severe abdominal pain, prolonged heavy bleeding, or fainting
• abdominal pain or discomfort, or general malaise (“feeling sick,” including weakness, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, with or without fever)
• Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed with a surgical abortion
• An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work

Additionally, a chemical abortion is not an option in certain situations, including:

• If it has been more than 70 days since a woman’s last period
• You have certain medical conditions, including certain heart or blood vessel diseases; severe liver, kidney, or lung disease; an uncontrolled seizure disorder; or certain other medical conditions
• You are on a blood thinner or certain steroid medications
• You have an intrauterine device (IUD)
• Have a suspected pregnancy outside of the uterus (ectopic pregnancy)
• You may have an allergy to the abortion medications used

Chemical abortion has not been shown to affect future pregnancies unless complications develop. If you’re considering this procedure, make sure you understand what it entails, the possible side effects and risks, complications, and alternatives. Women’s Help Center will guide and support you to help you make an informed decision about your pregnancy.