If you’re considering the abortion pill, you may already know that vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping are part of the process. However, it’s crucial to gather more information about what abortion drugs could cause, including possible risks.
Knowing what those risks are, as well as when to contact a healthcare provider, is a critical component of the decision-making process. When you have all the facts, you can make an informed decision.
Haven Health is available if you have questions about your pregnancy, abortion pill, or your options. Contact us to schedule a no-cost appointment and speak with a licensed nurse.
How the Abortion Pill Works
A medical abortion usually involves two drugs.
The first is mifepristone, which blocks progesterone. Progesterone is needed for a pregnancy to continue. The second drug, misoprostol, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.
The FDA has approved this drug regimen only through 10 weeks of gestation, and taking the drugs past that point isn’t recommended.
Vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping occur after taking the drugs, but other side effects are possible. These include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, fever, and chills.
What Are the Risks?
The abortion pill also carries potential risks, and while rare, they can lead to complications. Risks associated with taking abortion drugs include heavy or prolonged bleeding, infection, an ongoing pregnancy if the drugs are unsuccessful, or an incomplete abortion that requires additional medical treatment.
If you experience symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding that doesn’t improve, or a prolonged fever after taking the abortion pill, seek immediate medical attention. These could signal an infection or another complication requiring prompt care.
Before Deciding
As you gather more information about your options, be sure to receive an ultrasound before making any decisions. Learning about your pregnancy can pinpoint certain conditions, such as an ectopic pregnancy, that need medical treatment.
Additionally, learning details such as how far along you are can further determine which options are available.
Haven Health provides pregnancy testing administered by licensed nurses. Patients who receive a positive test at the clinic may also be offered a limited OB ultrasound, which can provide information about gestational age and pregnancy location.
Schedule a free appointment today to get your questions answered. We’re here for you.
Haven Health does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
