What Are the Side Effects of the Abortion Pill?

Thinking about taking the abortion pill? If so, it’s essential to learn all you can to ensure you’re making a safe, informed decision.

This article will highlight the basics you need to know about the abortion pill—including the side effects and risks. However, if you want to talk to someone in person about the abortion pill and the free resources that are available to assist you in reaching an educated decision, contact Options today to schedule a free, confidential appointment.

How Does the Abortion Pill Work?

The abortion pill involves two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol.

First, mifepristone is taken to block the hormone progesterone, which is essential for maintaining a pregnancy. Without progesterone, your uterine lining will break down, causing the pregnancy to end.

After 24-48 hours, misoprostol is taken to induce uterine contractions, which expel the embryo from the uterus and out through the vagina.

Side Effects of the Abortion Pill

Due to the way the drugs work, after taking them, you will experience vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping. Some women have reported that the pain they felt was unexpectedly severe.

You might also experience:

Upset stomach
Vomiting
Fever
Chills
Diarrhea
Headache

Risks of the Abortion Pill

The abortion drugs also come with risks to your health, which are more dangerous than side effects but also rare. Risks include:

Incomplete abortion which requires additional treatment
Heavy and prolonged bleeding
Infection
Fever
Digestive symptoms such as upset stomach

Protect Your Health

Before seeking abortion drugs, it’s essential to get an ultrasound. This simple scan will give you the information you need to know about which abortion procedures are medically available.

At Options, we offer free, limited ultrasound referrals, plus a safe, supportive space to ask questions and think through your options.