If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, it’s important to have accurate information before making a decision. Many people refer to the “abortion pill” as though it’s a single pill, but it’s actually two different drugs that work together to end a pregnancy and expel the pregnancy from the uterus.
Understanding how these drugs work, the potential side effects and risks, and what to do before making a pregnancy decision is critical to protecting your health. Read on to learn more, or contact Cleburne Pregnancy Center today to find a safe space to talk and find answers.
The Abortion Pill Is Actually Two Different Drugs
The abortion pill* uses two different drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol.
The first drug, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone. Progesterone is necessary for a pregnancy to continue because it helps nourish and support the developing embryo. Without it, the uterine lining will break down, and the pregnancy will detach and end.
The second drug, misoprostol, is typically taken 24 to 48 hours later. It causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through the vagina via uterine contractions.
What Are the Side Effects and Risks?
The abortion drugs come with side effects and risks. Some side effects are minor, but risks can become serious.
Side effects include:
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Risks include:
- The body not releasing all the pregnancy tissue in the uterus, also called an incomplete abortion. This may require surgical abortion.
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive symptoms such as an upset stomach
It’s also important to know that if parts of the pregnancy remain in your uterus, you’re at risk for a potentially life-threatening infection known as sepsis.
Why an Ultrasound Is So Important
Before making any pregnancy decision, it’s important to know key details about your pregnancy through an ultrasound.
An ultrasound can help determine:
- Whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus (and rule out an ectopic pregnancy)
- Whether the pregnancy is viable
- Approximately how far along you are
This information is critical because certain conditions, such as an ectopic pregnancy, require immediate medical treatment and cannot be treated with abortion drugs. Furthermore, the abortion drugs are only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is 10 weeks or under, and only an ultrasound can confirm your pregnancy’s gestational age.
You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
If you’re considering your pregnancy options, you deserve a place where you can ask questions without pressure.
At Cleburne Pregnancy Center, we provide a safe, confidential space to talk through your situation and receive accurate information about your pregnancy and options. We also offer free pregnancy ultrasounds for qualifying patients so you can learn important details about your pregnancy before making a decision.
Contact Cleburne Pregnancy Center today to schedule your confidential appointment. You’re not alone in this. We’re here for you.
Cleburne Pregnancy Center does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we are committed to providing accurate information and resources.
*Abortion is currently illegal in Texas except in cases of life endangerment, but women cannot be held criminally or civilly liable for seeking one.