You may have heard that the missed period pill is simply a pill to take to bring on your late period, but it is a medication which will cause an abortion if you are pregnant. Period pills, also called “missed period pills” or “late period pills,” are other names for the abortion pill.
What could happen if I took the abortion pill when I don’t know if I am pregnant?
You might be feeling afraid about the possibility of being unexpectedly pregnant, but it is best not to make a decision based on fear or uncertainty. You may have heard that the abortion pill is completely safe, but it is never wise to take medication you don’t need. You deserve to have all the facts to make an informed decision. Some facts to keep in mind before taking the abortion pill:
· Side effects associated with the abortion pill include severe cramping, heavy bleeding (if pregnant), stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache and fever.
· Your missed period could be due to a health issue, not pregnancy.
· You could have an ectopic pregnancy.
· The abortion pill does not remove an ectopic pregnancy.
· The abortion pill is not 100% effective.
Is It Normal to Miss a Period? When to Be Concerned
What is an ectopic pregnancy?
Before taking abortion medication, it is important to confirm that you are pregnant by taking a pregnancy test and having an ultrasound to make sure that the pregnancy is developing and located in the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy is when an embryo implants outside of the uterus, often in the fallopian tube. If not treated immediately, an ectopic pregnancy can be life-threatening. The abortion pill does not remove an ectopic pregnancy. A woman with an ectopic pregnancy needs immediate medical care to prevent rupture of the fallopian tube and internal bleeding. An ultrasound is the only way to determine if the pregnancy is normal or ectopic.
A woman is more at risk for ectopic pregnancy if she:
· Is over 35
· Has endometriosis
· Smokes
· Has more than one sexual partner
· Has an IUD
To make an informed decision, you need to know if you are pregnant and if the pregnancy is viable.
Ectopic pregnancy – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
What is the missed period or abortion pill?
The most common abortion pill is a combination of two different drugs, Mifepristone and Misoprostol, taken 24 to 48 hours apart.
The abortion pill is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for women who are up to 10 weeks pregnant or 70 days or less from the first day of their last menstrual period.
Taking the abortion pill is also known as a “medical” or “medication abortion.
How does the abortion pill work?
The abortion pill is a combination of two drugs that are taken 24 to 48 hours apart. The first pill, Mifepristone, blocks the pregnancy hormone progesterone from reaching the fetus. Progesterone is needed for the fetus to continue to grow. The second pill, Misoprostol, causes severe cramping and heavy bleeding, which expels the fetus, ending the pregnancy.
It is normal to pass large blood clots and tissue after taking the second pill. Bleeding will be much heavier than a regular period and can continue for up to two weeks. Please be aware of the side effects listed below. Do not be afraid to seek medical attention.
You may have heard using the abortion pill called a “self-managed abortion.” This is accurate as you are having an abortion at home.
Do I need to confirm my pregnancy before taking the abortion pill?
Since the abortion pill is only recommended for women who are up to 10 weeks pregnant, it is important to confirm your pregnancy by taking a pregnancy test. It is also important to have an ultrasound to be sure the pregnancy is developing and located in the uterus. An ultrasound will determine how long you have been pregnant and if your pregnancy is viable.
Are there side effects from the abortion pill?
With any medical procedure, there are risks. Some women using the abortion pill may not have any complications, but new research shows that 1 in 10 women experience a serious complication, including infection, hemorrhage, incomplete abortion, or sepsis. Other side effects may include severe cramping, heavy bleeding, stomach pain, fever and chills.
How could I feel after taking the abortion pill?
In addition to severe cramping and bleeding, many women also experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. If nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or fever continue for longer than 24 hours after taking the second pill, seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms could indicate that you have an infection.
Following an abortion, some women also experience emotional distress and regret. At Mercy Women’s Center, we are here to support you.
Is abortion my only option?
You may feel like abortion is your only option, especially if you are making your decision alone. No one should pressure you to have an abortion – the decision is yours. Your other options include parenting and making an adoption plan. Mercy is here to discuss your options and offer caring, non-judgmental support
Why should I make an appointment at Mercy?
Mercy does not provide or refer for abortions. But we are here to answer your questions about abortion and your other options. We believe women deserve objective information on their pregnancy options from a resource that does not profit from their decisions.
All of Mercy’s services are free and confidential. Make an appointment today to discuss your options.
What can I expect during my appointment?
At Mercy, you will be heard and treated with respect. If you need a self-administered pregnancy test, we can provide one. We can also provide a referral for an ultrasound if that is needed. You will meet with a caring advocate who will listen to your concerns and explain your options. You are not alone. Contact Mercy for a free, confidential appointment.