Medication abortion, or the abortion pill, is used by women choosing to terminate an early pregnancy. It is safe and effective, as well as approved by the FDA since 2000. It can be used to up to 10 weeks of pregnancy. Currently, about sixty-three percent of abortions in the United States are performed through medications.
How Does Medication Abortion Work?
The process involves taking two medications over a couple of days:
Mifepristone – This is the first pill taken and it blocks the hormone progesterone from being absorbed. This pill stops the development of pregnancy.
Misoprostol – You take this second pill 24 to 48 hours later. This medication induces cramping and bleeding strong enough to expel the contents of the uterus. The bleeding is comparable to that of a heavy menstrual period.
When combined, these pills are 98% effective at finishing an early stage pregnancy.
What Should I Expect During the Process?
Pain & Cramping: Most women feel real pain as well as cramping, both of which are pretty standard while the uterus empties. Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen (Tylenol) are good options to ease your discomfort.
Bleeding: Heavy bleeding with clots is pretty normal during this stage and can be sustained for a few hours before slowing down.
Update: As is the case in many instances, in-person follow up is not needed. However, if the procedure is incomplete, a second dose of misoprostol or an in-clinic procedure may be indicated.