A medical abortion involves taking two powerful drugs that work together to terminate and expel a pregnancy from your uterus and out through your vagina.
If you’re considering a medical abortion, it’s critical to learn all you can about how it works and the associated risks to ensure you make an informed decision.
This article will highlight the essentials you need to know about the abortion drugs. But if you want to learn more about your options or talk to someone about your pregnancy, contact 1st Way Pregnancy Support Center today to schedule a free, confidential appointment.
How Does a Medical Abortion Work?
Medical abortion drugs are taken at home.
The first drug, mifepristone, blocks progesterone. Without this necessary hormone, your uterine lining will loosen and shed, causing your pregnancy to detach and end.
The second drug, misoprostol, causes uterine contractions, which expel the pregnancy from your uterus.
How Will I Feel After Taking the Abortion Drugs?
The abortion drugs will cause vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping. Some women report that the pain is unexpectedly severe.
However, you might also experience the following side effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
What Are the Risks of the Abortion Drugs?
The abortion drugs come with risks to your health. Risks are rare but can be life-threatening and include:
- Incomplete abortion, which is when parts of the terminated pregnancy remain in your uterus
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
Am I Eligible for a Medical Abortion?
A medical abortion isn’t an option for every woman.
The abortion drugs are only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is 10 weeks gestation or under. If you take them and your pregnancy is further along, you’re more likely to experience a risk to your health.
At 1st Way Pregnancy Support Center, we offer free, confidential Pre-Abortion Screenings to give you the information you need to make an informed decision and protect your health. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
