The Abortion Pill

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The abortion pill, also known as medical abortion, is an option chosen early in pregnancy. Keep in mind this procedure typically is done in the home following a doctor visit. Make sure you know the risks and details of the procedure.

 

You should not try to perform a medical abortion past nine weeks of pregnancy (some cannot be done past seven weeks of prengnacy). The baby can be 0.9 inches long and weigh 0.07 ounces.

 

You also cannot receive a medical abortion if you:

• Have an IUD

• Might have an ectopic pregnancy (outside the uterus)

• Have certain medical conditions (bleeding disorder; some heart or blood vessel diseases; severe liver, kidney, or lung disease; uncontrolled seizure disorder) 

• Take a blood thinner or certain steroid medications

• Have an allergy to abortion medications

 

Procedure Steps

• First take mifepristone, a medication that blocks progesterone (sometimes taken in a doctor’s office)

  • Progesterone is necessary for the baby to grow; without progesterone, the baby stops growing

  • It also causes the lining of the uterus to thin, preventing the baby from staying implanted

• Then take misoprostol (immediately or 48 hours later)

  • Causes cramping and bleeding to empty the uterus

  • The baby will come out (will happen at home)

• Schedule a follow-up visit with doctor to make sure abortion is complete

 

Procedure Risks

• Continued bleeding

• Diarrhea

• Baby and other materials not passing completely through body, requiring surgery

• Infection

• Nausea

• Pain

• Vomiting

Do you need help deciding what to do about your pregnancy? We are here for you. You can chat with us at the bottom of the screen, or call us at (877) 306-8170.