We’re happy you are asking this question. Since you carry out the abortion pill method at home, knowing what side effects to expect is critical for protecting your health. Without a doctor’s immediate oversight, you need to know how much bleeding is too much or if you’ll feel pain.
Here’s the information you need before taking the abortion pill.
How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
The abortion pill doesn’t end your pregnancy with just one pill. This method uses a series of two powerful drugs over a 24 to 48-hour period.
The first drug, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone from reaching your uterus. Without progesterone, a pregnancy cannot continue to grow, so it ends.
Misoprostol, the second drug, causes bleeding and contractions to remove the pregnancy and tissue from your body.
To protect your health, the FDA approves the use of abortion drugs through 10 weeks of pregnancy only. Given that they carefully regulate mifepristone, the FDA only allows certified providers to prescribe it.
Are There Side Effects?
According to experts, you can expect the following side effects:
- Bleeding (this always happens).
- Cramping (this always happens).
- Upset stomach.
- Vomiting.
- Fever.
- Chills.
- Diarrhea.
- Headache.
Some women report being surprised by the intensity of pain.
When Should I Be Concerned?
Every abortion involves a certain amount of bleeding and cramping. However, you need to know how much bleeding should make you concerned.
Experts say the following symptoms may require medical attention after taking the abortion pill:
- No bleeding 24 hours after taking misoprostol.
- Severe bleeding — soaking two or more pads an hour for two hours.
- Severe abdominal or back pain.
- Fever lasting more than 24 hours.
- Sign of an infection (foul-smelling vaginal discharge).
- You don’t get your period after two months.
- Signs of pregnancy.
How Can La Luz Help Me?
Although we do not perform or refer for abortion, we can provide factual information about abortion procedures, including potential risks. If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy and trying to determine what to do, we can help.
We offer no-cost pregnancy services, like pregnancy testing and ultrasound scans. Get as much information about your pregnancy as possible before you decide. Our client advocates provide a no-cost consultation to discuss your situation and offer options.
We have three locations to serve you: Rio Rancho, and Albuquerque. You can conveniently schedule an appointment online or give us a call. We’re here to help you.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
