Facing an unexpected pregnancy can bring up many questions, and understanding your options is an important first step. If you’re looking for clear, medically accurate information about the abortion pill, PCS Health is here to offer free services, compassionate support, and confidential guidance as you explore your next steps.
What the Abortion Pill Is
The “abortion pill” is a common term for a medical abortion, a process that uses two prescription medications to end an early pregnancy. Medical abortion is FDA-approved for use through 10 weeks of gestation.
A medication abortion typically involves two drugs:
- Mifepristone: Blocks progesterone, a hormone needed to sustain a pregnancy.
- Misoprostol: Causes the uterus to contract and expel pregnancy tissue.
These medications must be taken in a specific order and timeframe. Eligibility depends on how far along the pregnancy is, personal health history, and screening for conditions that could make the process unsafe.
How the Abortion Pill Works
While exact procedures vary by provider, a medication abortion generally includes three steps:
- Evaluation and dating of the pregnancy: a medical professional confirms pregnancy and determines gestational age, often with an ultrasound.
- Administration of the medications: Mifepristone is taken first. Misoprostol is taken hours or days later, causing cramping and bleeding.
- Follow-up care: A follow-up test or exam is often recommended to confirm that the abortion is complete.
Possible Risks and Considerations
Every medical procedure has risks. Potential side effects of the abortion pill may include:
- Heavy bleeding
- Cramping
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever or chills
- Incomplete abortion requiring additional medical care
Certain health conditions or an undiagnosed ectopic pregnancy may make medication abortion unsafe. An ultrasound is the most reliable way to confirm pregnancy location and viability before taking abortion pills.
Visit PCS Health For Support
Processing your options can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure everything out alone. PCS Health offers free pregnancy testing, ultrasound confirmation, and medically accurate information so you can make an informed decision with confidence and privacy.
Reach out today to schedule a confidential appointment. We’re here to support you with clarity, compassion, and care.
PCS Health does not provide or refer for abortions. All information in this blog reflects medical guidelines available at the time of writing.