What is the 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.
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.
FDA Q&A on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation
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.
Ethics and Public Policy Center
The Foundation for the Restoration of America
Is it safe to order the abortion pill online?
It is dangerous to order any medication from another country or buy it off the street, as you do not know what medication you are getting.
Is the abortion pill “Plan B?”
Plan B and the abortion pill are not the same. Plan B is a single pill containing a large amount of the progesterone hormone found in some birth control pills. If taken within 72 hours of sex, it may delay or prevent ovulation or disrupt the attachment of the embryo to the uterus.
Are there any side effects from taking “Plan B?”
Some possible side effects include changes in your period, nausea, lower abdominal pain, tiredness, headache, breast tenderness, and dizziness. If your period is more than a week late, you may be pregnant and should not take Plan B.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
How might 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 or go to the emergency room right away. 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.
Can a medication abortion be reversed?
If you have taken the first abortion pill and regret it, the abortion may be able to be reversed. If you change your mind, do not take the second pill and immediately call the 24/7 Abortion Pill Reversal Helpline: 1-877-558-0333. Here, you will find medical professionals who can help you.
Delgado, G. & Davenport, M.L (2012)
Is abortion my only option?
No, abortion is not the only option available to you. 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 all of your 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 provide a referral for an ultrasound if that is needed. You will meet with a caring staff member who will listen to your concerns and explain your options. You are not alone.
Call us #610-376-0969
Text #484-946-3885