Everything You've Ever Wanted to Know About the Abortion Pill

Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider.

With the recent changes in healthcare, the abortion pill is getting more attention. It could be an answer for someone who experiences an unexpected pregnancy and their use has been on the rise over the last few years. The Guttmacher Institute estimates about half of all abortions involve this pill. So what is an abortion pill and what are the abortion pill side effects?

What is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill is two medications that together are what healthcare professionals call a medical abortion. It is a popular option for some because it is something they can do at home instead of going to a clinic for a surgical procedure.

The first pill is mifepristone. Once you take it, you wait 24 to 48 hours before starting the second medication, misoprostol.

Unlike a surgical abortion, medical abortions are non-invasive but there are some risks to consider such as:

• Incomplete abortion means some tissue remains in the uterus and requires surgical removal.
• Heavy bleeding that goes on longer than average
• Infection
• High fever
• Stomach upset
• It is also possible the treatment won’t work, and you will remain pregnant 

At least one study found that between 7 and 4 percent of women who have a medical abortion require a transfusion because of excessive blood loss. There was no evidence anyone died from taking the abortion pill or needed a hysterectomy due to its use.

How Do Abortion Pills Work?

When a person becomes pregnant, the body increases its production of the reproductive hormone progesterone. The first medication, mifepristone, that you take suppresses the production of this hormone. Since it is necessary to sustain a viable pregnancy, the uterus will expel its contents when the progesterone stops.

The second drug, misoprostol, helps the uterus empty fully. It stimulates uterine contractions and bleeding, which help clean out the organ.

Around 14 days after taking the second medication, you get a repeat pregnancy test or an ultrasound to confirm you are no longer pregnant.

Abortion Pill Side Effects

These medications aim to get the uterus to contract and empty, similar to a period. Those who take the abortion pill typically experience bleeding and cramps. At times, the bleeding will be heavy. Some people also experience a low-grade fever, chills, and hot flashes.

The recommendation is to contact a healthcare professional if you are bleeding through two heavy pads per hour or run a temperature above 100.4. A heating pad over the belly and over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage the cramps.

You may experience bleeding and cramps for three to five hours. You should have your first regular period about two weeks after the abortion.

How Many Weeks Pregnant Can I Take the Abortion Pill?

In general, someone can get the abortion pill if they are less than ten weeks pregnant. However, it is not the right choice for someone experiencing an ectopic pregnancy or who has a blood clotting disorder.

The laws vary from state to state on its use, as well. Since the FDA made it available via the mail, you can get it in all 50 states; there may be legal limitations, though. In New York, those seeking a medical abortion using this pill may be able to do so without even seeing a doctor. You may only need to speak to a provider to get the medication in person or by mail. 

Support When Making Your Decision

Feelings of anxiety and uncertainty are magnified when a pregnancy is unplanned and you’re unsure of the options you have. If you don’t have a strong network of friends or non-judgmental family members to talk you through your options, it can be tough to make a decision you feel confident about.

Avail provides completely unbiased, confidential abortion information along with information and support for all the available options. If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy and aren’t sure about your next steps, schedule an abortion processing appointment today. We also provide referrals to third-party medical centers for a free to low-cost OB/GYN appointment if you wish.

Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider.