We have spoken of the abortion pill (also referred to as a “medication abortion”, “at-home abortion”, “self-managed abortion” or “chemical abortion”) in past blog posts. However, the topic seems to continue to come up and questions continue to be asked, so we think it is worth revisiting.
What is the abortion pill?
To briefly recap, the abortion pill involves the use of two medications, mifepristone and misoprostol, to terminate a pregnancy within the first 10 weeks. The first pill is prescribed within the first seven to ten weeks of pregnancy and given at the office visit to block the effects of progesterone. Progesterone is a hormone that women naturally produce and provides vital nutrients needed for a developing baby. Without progesterone, pregnancies will fail. The second drug is taken at home 6-48 hours later and may cause cramping and bleeding in order to empty the uterus and expel the baby.
It is important for individuals considering this option to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it is appropriate for their specific circumstances and to receive the necessary medical supervision and support.
How will I feel after taking the abortion pill?
After taking the abortion pill, the experience can vary from one woman to another, but there are some common symptoms and side effects that many women experience. Here’s a general overview of what you might expect:
- Initial Symptoms: After taking mifepristone, some women experience nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, diarrhea, headache or spotting.
- Cramping and Bleeding: Within 1-4 hours after taking misoprostol cramping can be intense and similar to severe menstrual cramps, and the bleeding can be heavy with clots.
- Duration: The heaviest bleeding and cramping typically lasts for a few hours, but lighter bleeding or spotting can continue for up to several weeks.
- Varied Emotions: It’s normal to have a range of emotions after a medication abortion. Some people may experience sadness, guilt, or a sense of loss. Hormonal changes can also affect your mood.
Can I stop the abortion once I’ve started the process?
Many women that have started the abortion pill process regret their decision and ask if they can stop or reverse the effects of the pill. The short answer is yes, it is a possibility if it is done in time. If you are considering this, time is critical. The intervention should ideally occur as soon as possible after taking mifepristone and before taking misoprostol. Abortion pill reversal involves administering progesterone after the first pill (mifepristone) is taken, but before the second pill (misoprostol) is taken, with the intent to counteract the effects of mifepristone. Using the natural hormone progesterone, medical professionals have been able to save 64-68% of pregnancies through abortion pill reversal.
When should I see a healthcare professional?
Everyone’s experience is unique, and if you have any specific concerns or questions, it is best to discuss them with a healthcare professional, who can give you personalized advice and support. Here are a few common reasons:
- Medical Follow-Up: It is important to only get the medication from a medical professional to ensure that it is right for you. After taking the pills, a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider is important to ensure the abortion is complete and to address any ongoing symptoms or concerns.
- Heavy Bleeding: Soaking through two or more pads an hour for two consecutive hours.
- Severe Pain: Severe abdominal or back pain.
- Fever: A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher that lasts more than 24 hours.
- Abnormal discharge: Foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
How can I learn more?
The first thing you should do is make sure that you have a thorough consultation to understand the risks, benefits, and alternatives. If you are seeking information, resources or considering the abortion pill, call or text Bella Medical Clinic at 920-231-6006 to connect with a nurse now or request your consultation. If you have started the process and wish to reverse the pill, Bella Medical Clinic offers Abortion Pill Reversal onsite. Bella is here to meet you wherever you are.
