The Abortion Pill
What is the abortion pill?
The term “abortion pill” refers to the combination of mifepristone and misoprostol, two distinct medications used to terminate a pregnancy. For an abortion, misoprostol alone may be recommended.
How do abortion pills work?
Depending on what was prescribed, yes. Mifepristone is taken first if two medications are provided in order to block the hormone progesterone and initiate the abortion. Then, 24 to 48 hours later, a second set of medications known as misoprostol are administered. In order to empty the uterus, this results in cramping and bleeding. If misoprostol is the only drug prescribed, the patient will take multiple doses of it, which will empty the uterus by causing cramps and bleeding.
The procedure is extremely similar to an early miscarriage, and it’s akin to having a heavy, cramping period. Call your doctor or nurse if, after taking misoprostol, there is no bleeding within 24 hours.
You may receive both medications at the health center from your physician or nurse. In certain jurisdictions, you can complete a virtual visit and either pick up the medication at a nearby drugstore or have it mailed to you.
You will receive comprehensive instructions from your physician or nurse regarding where, when, and how to take the medications. Additionally, they will discuss medications for side effects like nausea, discomfort, and cramps. Any directions you receive from your physician or nurse should be followed, including how to follow up with any questions you may have.
What happens When You Take The Abortion Pill ?
Medical abortion is similar to an early miscarriage for most people. You may have:
- A lot of stomach aches and cramps.
- Extremely severe bleeding with huge clots (contact your doctor or nurse if you don’t have any bleeding within 24 hours of taking misoprostol.)
- Vomiting and upset stomach (your doctor or nurse may give you medication to help with nausea).
- Chills or a slight temperature (99–100°F) on the day you take misoprostol. Call your doctor or health facility immediately if you get a temperature after taking the misoprostol medication; this could indicate that you are developing an infection.
Tiredness
Dizziness
Diarrhea
- When using misoprostol, you may experience chills or a mild fever (99–100° F). Call your doctor or health center as soon as possible if you experience a fever the day after taking the misoprostol medication; this could indicate that you are developing an infection.
You can locate your health center here or call the number provided by the facility if you’re worried about how you’re feeling. Your physician or nurse may suggest the following to assist reduce pain and improve your comfort:
- Aspirin can exacerbate bleeding, so avoid taking it when taking painkillers like ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin).
- Taking medication to prevent nausea (if recommended).
- Applying a hot water bottle or heating pad to your abdomen.
- Having someone rub your back.
Sitting on the toilet.
Taking a shower.
How will the abortion pill ( Medical Abortion) affect my periods?
It’s common to experience intermittent bleeding and spotting for a few weeks following an abortion. You can use a menstrual cup, tampons, or pads, depending on what is most comfortable for you. However, in order to monitor your bleeding during the abortion, your doctor or nurse could advise you to use pads.
Your menstruation should return to normal four to eight weeks after your abortion because the procedure initiates a new menstrual cycle. Your birth control arrangement may also affect when you get your next period.
You should start getting your period eight weeks after your abortion if you are not on hormonal birth control. Call the Planned Parenthood health facility that’s closest to you if you don’t get your period eight weeks following your abortion and you’re not on hormonal birth control.
How soon can I have sex after a medication abortion?
When you’re ready, you can start having sex.
If I use the abortion pill, can I still breastfeed?
Sometimes the medications in the abortion pill find their way into breast milk. However, a newborn shouldn’t be impacted by it in modest amounts. If you’re nursing, you can discuss the best course of action for both you and your child with your doctor or nurse.
After my medication abortion, when may I begin taking birth control?
Following a medication abortion, you can begin a new type of birth control right away. It’s a good idea to discuss birth control with your doctor or nurse as soon as possible because you can become pregnant very quickly after your abortion. They can help you discover a technique that works for you.