What Is The Abortion Pill Method?
The abortion pill method is also known as medical abortion, medication abortion, and RU-486. This abortion method is a two-step process using two drugs.
The first drug, mifepristone, blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for the pregnancy to survive. Without progesterone, the embryo dies.
You take the second drug, misoprostol, 24 to 48 hours later. This drug causes bleeding and contractions to expel the pregnancy from the body.
Am I eligible for the abortion pill?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves the use of the abortion pill to end a pregnancy through 70 days of gestation (70 days or less since the first day of a woman’s last menstrual period). Do you know the exact date when you became pregnant?
Once you confirm the number of weeks you have been pregnant, you’ll know what type of abortion procedure you can have.
Before you schedule your abortion, the Mayo Clinic recommends the following:
- An evaluation of your medical history
- Confirmation of pregnancy with pregnancy testing and a physical exam
- An ultrasound – to rule out an ectopic pregnancy or a miscarriage and to identify the gestational age
- Blood and urine testing ruling out an STI
- Explanation of the procedure, side effects, and possible risks and complications
What Can I Expect After The Abortion?
Expect cramping, contractions, and bleeding as side effects. Bleeding may be like a heavy period and can last 9 to 16 days and possibly 30 days.
Other possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, chills, weakness, dizziness, and headache. Many women also report feelings of sadness, guilt, and depression.
As with any medical procedure, there are health risks. The abortion provider usually recommends a follow-up appointment to confirm the abortion was successful.
Possible complications include incomplete abortion, heavy bleeding that may require surgery, or serious infection requiring treatment. Before taking any medication, you should discuss the risks with your doctor and know what to do if complications arise.
Is Abortion Pill Reversal Possible?
Doctors suggest Abortion Pill Reversal (APR) is 60 – 65% effective if done in time. The APR treatment uses natural progesterone as the antidote to rescue early pregnancies exposed to mifepristone.
If you have only taken the first drug (mifepristone) in the procedure and have a change of heart, call 1-877-558-0333 immediately. You must begin reversal no later than 72 hours after taking the first drug.
For more information, please visit the Abortion Pill Reversal Network or call their 24/7 Helpline at 1-877-558-0333.
Our Centers do not offer, recommend or refer for abortions or abortifacients.