What Are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?
Are you facing an unplanned pregnancy and thinking about taking the abortion pill? It’s essential to understand the risks of this abortion option first.
Some of the significant risks of the abortion pill include infection, fever, and incomplete abortion. To fully understand all of the risks, keep reading.
The Abortion Pill: A Two-Step Process
There are two different drugs used in a medication abortion – also known as the abortion pill. First, mifepristone is taken at a doctor’s office or abortion clinic, followed by misoprostol – 24-48 hours later.
Mifepristone works to block the womb from absorbing progesterone – which thins the lining of the uterus and prevents the pregnancy from developing.
Secondly, misoprostol is taken. This medicine causes the uterus to contract, causing the pregnancy to expel through the vagina. While it sounds like a normal period, it’s not that simple. Medication abortion is only for women up to 10 weeks pregnant.
The Risks of the Abortion Pill
Physical Risks
The abortion pill can cause serious complications for some women. According to the Mayo Clinic, potential physical risks include:
- Incomplete abortion
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
Physical Side Effects
The Mayo Clinic also shares that people may experience the following physical side effects in addition to bleeding and cramping:
- Nausea
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Headache
Emotional Impact on Women
The Mayo Clinic shares, “Having a medical abortion is a major decision with emotional and psychological consequences.” While many people choose this path, it’s worth exploring all aspects of the decision for yourself before moving forward. You have time.
Talk Over Your Options
We know this next decision is significant, and it may help you to talk over your pregnancy options with someone. Our team at Pathways Clinic is here to listen to your unique situation and inform you about all your options.
Make Sure You’re Pregnant
Even though a home pregnancy test is ordinarily accurate, there is still a chance for inaccuracy if taken at the wrong time. It’s still a possibility that you’re not pregnant. There are also a few factors that can cause misleading results, including early miscarriage. Confirm your results with lab-quality pregnancy testing.
Since the abortion pill is only for women up to 10 weeks of pregnancy, you must verify the date of your pregnancy. Skipping this step can lead to ineffectiveness or harm. With an ultrasound, you can confirm the dates and location of your pregnancy, two factors necessary to ensure your safety.
Our clinic offers pregnancy testing and ultrasound exams free of charge and confidential. Schedule an appointment today.