If you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, you may feel abortion is your best option.
However, before choosing to terminate your pregnancy, it is essential to understand the physical side effects and risks of the abortion pill.
For the sake of your health and future, continue reading to learn more about the abortion pill and its potential health effects.
What is the Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill, formally referred to as medical abortion, is used to terminate a pregnancy, typically before ten weeks gestation.
The abortion pill consists of two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol, taken in succession.
First, a woman takes mifepristone, which blocks progesterone, a necessary hormone, to end her pregnancy. Then, hours or days later, a woman takes misoprostol to trigger uterine contractions, leading to abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding.
The contractions will expel the pregnancy and related tissue from her uterus and out of her body through her vagina.
Physical Side Effects
While cramping and bleeding are expected side effects following a medical abortion, additional side effects include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Physical Risks of the Abortion Pill
In addition to the side effects of a medical abortion, there are also physical risks. While these risks are less likely to occur than side effects, it’s important to know that you could experience:
- Incomplete abortion, which may require follow-up surgical abortion
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Digestive system discomfort
- Fever
- Infection
You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following after a medical abortion:
- Soaking two or more pads per hour for two hours
- Fever for more than 24 hours
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Severe abdominal or back pain
Visit Options Care Center
Deciding how to proceed with your unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming.
Options Care Center is here to help you learn more about your pregnancy and options.
We provide no-cost, medical-grade pregnancy testing and ultrasound scans, giving you the information you need to make an informed decision about your pregnancy.
Our trusted staff can answer your questions and discuss what options are available to you.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential appointment.
