What is the abortion pill?
The abortion “pill” is more than just a pill. It is a two-step regimen intended to end an early pregnancy (10 weeks or less).
Sometimes referred to as a chemical abortion, medication abortion, or DIY abortion, this process is 93-98% effective at ending a pregnancy (2-7% of women will still need a surgical procedure to end the pregnancy or stop heavy bleeding).
How does the abortion pill work?
According to the FDA step one of the regimen is to take 200 mg of the drug mifepristone, commonly referred to as RU486, or by its brand name, Mifeprex. Mifepristone blocks the body’s naturally producing progesterone which is needed to sustain a pregnancy.
Step two utilizes the drug misoprostol, also knowns as Cytotec. 24-48 hours after taking Mifeprex, 800 mcg of misoprostol should be taken buccally (in the cheek pouch) or vaginally at a location where the patient feels most comfortable. Misoprostol softens the cervix and causes uterine contractions (cramping), which will expel the pregnancy from the body.
You should follow up with your provider seven to 14 days after completing the abortion pill regimen to ensure the abortion was completed successfully and no infection exists.
Do I need to have an ultrasound before taking the abortion pill?
Ultrasound is the most reliable way to determine how far along you are in your pregnancy. Additionally, ultrasound is the only way to confirm you do not have an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that occurs outside of the uterus. The abortion pill is not a reliable way to end an ectopic pregnancy. While it may successfully terminate the pregnancy, it cannot remove the embryo from your body, therefore increasing your risk of serious complications, such as internal bleeding or infection.
Parkville Women’s Clinic offers a variety of services including a limited OB ultrasound for the purposes of confirming an intrauterine pregnancy, detecting fetal cardiac activity, and estimating gestational age only. This information will help you decide based on all your available options.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
What can I expect after taking the abortion pill?
During the abortion pill process, particularly after taking misoprostol, you will likely pass large blood clots – up to the size of a lemon – as well as the fetus or embryo. It is important to prepare yourself mentally and emotionally for this process, particularly if your pregnancy is eight weeks along or later. There is no right or wrong way to feel so it is important to have your trusted support system in place to help you process your emotions.
What are the possible side effects of the abortion pill?
Side effects include:
- Cramping and vaginal bleeding
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Fever/chills
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Depression
- Anxiety
What should I do if my side effects persist?
Go to the nearest emergency room if:
- You are bleeding through two regular-sized sanitary pads per hour for more than two hours
- You are passing blood clots larger than a lemon
- You have a fever of 100.4˚ F or higher for longer than four hours
- You have persistent nausea, stomach pain, or weakness
- You are feeling depressed and are having thoughts of hurting yourself
In order for emergency room personnel to properly diagnose and treat you, it is important that you be upfront and honest about taking the abortion pill.
According to an article published by the Charlotte Lozier Institute and backed by the research of Health Services Research and Managerial Epidemiology, abortions miscoded as miscarriages in the ER were more likely (by as much as 78%) to result in hospitalization. Furthermore, they were twice as likely to be admitted for surgery for retained products of conception (RPOC).
Where can I get more information?
At Parkville Women’s Clinic we are here to provide you with real support and real answers so you can be fully informed and empowered within your unique situation.
Our services range from pregnancy testing and support to STI testing and treatment to ensure your sexual health is put first. We have nursing staff on site to confirm a pregnancy and provide you with the support you need going forward. All at no charge.