If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy and exploring your options, you may have questions about medical abortion. Understanding how this method works and the risks involved is essential before making any decisions. Pregnancy Resource Center offers free pregnancy services and confidential consultations with licensed medical professionals so you can understand your pregnancy and receive answers you can trust.
How a Medical Abortion Works
A medical abortion uses two medications, mifepristone and misoprostol, to end an early pregnancy. This method is FDA-approved for pregnancies up to 10 weeks gestation. Although sometimes called “the abortion pill,” it is not a single pill or a simple process. It initiates a series of hormonal and physical changes that affect the body significantly.
- Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for pregnancy development. Without progesterone, the pregnancy stops progressing and detaches from the uterine lining.
- Misoprostol, taken hours or days later, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue. This step typically involves intense bleeding and cramping and may last several hours.
Common Side Effects
Most women experience noticeable physical changes during a medical abortion. Side effects may include:
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Fever or chills
- Headache
- Strong cramping and heavy bleeding
These reactions vary widely from person to person.
Potential Medical Risks
Like all medical procedures, medical abortion carries complications. These may include:
- Heavy or prolonged bleeding
- Incomplete abortion, requiring additional medical treatment
- Infection
- Ongoing pregnancy if the medications do not work
- An undetected ectopic pregnancy, which cannot be treated with abortion pills and is a medical emergency
Because these medical risks can impact your health, an ultrasound and a consultation with a qualified medical professional at Pregnancy Resource Center are essential before making any decisions. This allows your provider to review your individual health history and address your concerns.
Why Accurate Medical Information Matters
Online information can be confusing or inconsistent. Having clear, medically verified facts helps you understand all aspects of the process, not just the medications, but the risks, timing, and health considerations involved.
Pregnancy Resource Center is available to help you understand your pregnancy through free testing, ultrasound confirmation, and private counseling. Schedule a confidential appointment today.
Pregnancy Resource Center does not provide or refer for abortions. All medical information reflects guidelines available at the time of writing.