A medical abortion, commonly referred to as the “abortion pill,” is a series of two drugs taken to terminate a pregnancy.
While the process may seem simple, the abortion pill can be dangerous for your physical and mental health.
Not all women and not all pregnancies are eligible for the abortion pill, so before having an abortion, every woman should be thoroughly evaluated by a medical provider.
To protect your health, read on to gain a better understanding of the health risks and limitations of the abortion pill.
How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
Mifepristone and misoprostol are the two drugs used during a medical abortion.
Mifepristone works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which causes the implanted pregnancy to detach from the uterus.
Misoprostol then causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through the vagina.
Health Risks of the Abortion Pill
Before taking the abortion pill, take time to consider the physical and mental health impacts.
The physical risks include:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by a surgical abortion
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive discomfort
The mental health risks:
- Grief
- Depression disorders
- Eating disorders
- Anxiety
- Sleep disturbances
- Suicidal behaviors
- Substance abuse
Limitations of the Abortion Pill
Prior to having an abortion, you should receive an ultrasound scan to determine the age and location of the woman’s pregnancy.
If your pregnancy’s gestation is beyond 10 weeks or if an ectopic pregnancy is discovered, you will not qualify for a medical abortion.
Along with the importance of receiving an ultrasound, you should discuss your health history and healthcare accessibility with a medical provider before having an abortion.
You may not be eligible for a medical abortion if you:
- Have an IUD (intrauterine device)
- Have certain medical conditions, including bleeding disorders, heart and blood vessel disease, liver disease, kidney disease, lung disease, or severe seizure disorders
- Take a blood thinner or certain steroid medications
- Can’t make follow-up visits to your provider or don’t have access to emergency care
- Have an allergy to the medicine used
Pre-abortion Consultation
Having an abortion is a serious medical decision, and learning the details of your pregnancy and health history is vital for your protection.
At Options Care Center, we are here to help you. We offer free medical-grade pregnancy tests and ultrasound scans. Our trusted medical staff is available to answer your questions and provide resources to support you.
Contact us today for your confidential appointment.
