What is a Medical Abortion?

A medical abortion, also known as the abortion pill, involves taking two different drugs that terminate an existing pregnancy. When considering this option, it’s essential to understand how it works and the risks. Get clarity to make a confident decision about how to move forward. 

Read on to learn more about how a medical abortion works, the potential risks involved, and what to do next. If you’d like to learn more about your pregnancy options, contact us at InnerVisions HealthCare for a no-cost appointment. 

What to Expect

Medical abortion includes taking two different drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. First, mifepristone blocks progesterone, a vital pregnancy hormone needed to sustain a pregnancy. Secondly, misoprostol is taken and causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through the vagina.

Physical Risks & Side Effects

After taking both drugs in the medical abortion process, women may feel the following side effects:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache

There are also some health risks to this medical procedure.  According to the Mayo Clinic, the potential risks of medical abortion include:

Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion

  • An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
  • Heavy and prolonged bleeding
  • Infection
  • Fever

Understand Your Pregnancy Details

First, you must understand your pregnancy details before learning your pregnancy options. Confirm your pregnancy details with no-cost pregnancy testing and an ultrasound to safeguard your health and be alerted of potential complications. 

We’re here to help you. Schedule an appointment to learn more.