What Is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill is a combination of two powerful drugs that work together to terminate and expel a pregnancy out of the uterus through the vagina.

If you’re considering the abortion pill, it’s critical to learn all you can to protect your health and make an educated decision. This article covers the essentials you need to know before making a pregnancy decision and the steps you can take to protect your health. If you want more information about your options or free resources and services, contact The Well Clinic to schedule a confidential appointment.

How does the abortion pill work?

There are two different drugs involved in the “abortion pill” regimen.

The first drug, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone. Without this essential hormone, your uterine lining will loosen and shed, causing your pregnancy to detach and end.

Misoprostol is the second drug. It causes uterine contractions, which expel your pregnancy from your uterus.

How will I feel after taking the abortion drugs?

After taking the abortion drugs, you will experience vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping.

Some women have reported (opens in a new tab) that the pain they experienced was severe, and they weren’t adequately prepared or warned about what to expect.

You might also experience a risk, a rare but potentially life-threatening complication. These risks include (opens in a new tab):

• Incomplete abortion, which is when parts of the pregnancy remain in your uterus
• Heavy and prolonged bleeding
• Infection
• Fever
• Digestive system discomfort

How can I protect my health?

It’s important to know that the abortion drugs aren’t an option (opens in a new tab) for every woman.

These drugs are only FDA-approved (opens in a new tab) if your pregnancy is 10 weeks gestation or under. If you attempt to take these drugs and your pregnancy is further along, you’re more likely to experience a risk. (The only way to know your pregnancy’s gestational age with certainty is to get an ultrasound.)

At The Well Clinic, we offer free, limited ultrasounds and counseling because you deserve the information you need to protect your health and a safe space to explore your options.

Contact us to schedule a free, confidential appointment.

The Well Clinic does not perform or refer for abortions. We provide accurate information about every option so you can make an informed decision.