If you’re considering an abortion, you may have done research to see if you’re eligible for the abortion pill. But part of your decision-making process should also involve examining the risks of the abortion pill.
The abortion pill sounds like an easy out for an unexpected pregnancy, but it comes with potentially serious side effects and risks. To make an informed decision, you deserve to know about these risks ahead of time.
What is the Abortion Pill?
The “abortion pill” is actually a two-drug process. Also called a medical or chemical abortion, it utilizes two drugs to end and expel an early pregnancy (for pregnancies no more than 10 weeks along).
The first drug, mifepristone, ends the pregnancy by blocking progesterone, a hormone needed for the pregnancy to continue.
The second drug, taken 24-48 hours after the first, is called misoprostol. It causes your uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.
What are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?
Medical abortions can be painful and come with short- and long-term risks. It’s important to factor these risks into your decision-making, just like you would with any other medication or medical decision.
Physical Risks
The Mayo Clinic lists the following potential physical risks of the abortion pill:
- Incomplete abortion
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
In addition to these physical risks, consider the emotional risks of medical abortion as well.
Emotional Impact
The Mayo Clinic states, “Having a medical abortion is a major decision with emotional and psychological consequences.”
You owe it to yourself to carefully consider these physical and emotional risks before making your decision.
Before Taking the Abortion Pill
It’s important to learn more about your pregnancy to determine your eligibility for the abortion pill.
An ultrasound will reveal where your pregnancy is located, whether or not your pregnancy is viable, and how far along you are.
If your pregnancy is located outside the uterus, it is referred to as an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancies are not viable and can be life-threatening if not addressed right away.
If your pregnancy is farther than 10 weeks along, you will not be eligible for the abortion pill. The FDA has only approved medical abortions for early pregnancies.
If your pregnancy is nonviable, you have naturally miscarried and will need different treatment from your doctor.
We provide pregnancy verification and confirmation at the Women’s Clinics Maryland. We offer same-day appointments, so please call us today to schedule your free and confidential appointment to get the answers you need before making your decision.