If you’re considering the abortion pill, it’s so important to ask questions and find answers first. Making an informed decision about your pregnancy means understanding how the abortion pill works, whether you’re eligible, and what risks it may carry.
Here are three critical questions to ask before moving forward.
1. How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
The abortion pill, also known as medical abortion, is a two-step process:
- Mifepristone (first pill) blocks progesterone, the hormone needed to sustain a pregnancy. Without progesterone, the pregnancy detaches from the uterine lining and eventually ends.
- Misoprostol (second pill) is taken 24-48 hours later and causes the uterus to contract, expelling the pregnancy out through the vagina via contractions.
These are powerful drugs that will inevitably cause uterine cramping and vaginal bleeding.
2. Are There Factors That Make the Abortion Pill Unsafe?
The abortion pill is only FDA-approved for pregnancies up to 10 weeks gestation.
Other factors include pre-existing conditions such as:
- Having an ectopic pregnancy (which requires urgent medical care)
- Having certain medical conditions, such as a bleeding disorder or an IUD in place
- Taking particular drugs such as blood thinners or certain steroid medicines
Also, if you do not have access to emergency medical care in case of complications, this form of abortion could be unsafe.
Before taking the abortion pill, it’s essential to confirm how far along you are and whether your pregnancy is in the right location with an ultrasound.
3. What Are the Risks?
Many women assume that the abortion pill is a simple and risk-free option, but it does come with potential complications, including:
- Heavy bleeding and prolonged bleeding
- Severe pain
- Incomplete abortion, which can lead to a potentially life-threatening infection
- Emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or regret
InnerVisions HealthCare Is Here to Help
If you’re considering the abortion pill, you deserve to have all your questions answered in a safe, supportive environment. At InnerVisions HealthCare, we offer no-cost pregnancy testing, ultrasounds (if no medical contraindications), and confidential consultations to help you understand all of your options.
You don’t have to make this decision alone. Contact InnerVisions HealthCare today to get the answers and support you need.