Are you seeking an abortion and looking for more information? Understanding how an abortion works and the side effects you might experience can allow you to make an informed decision you feel confident about.
Here’s a quick overview of how a medical abortion works, who’s a candidate for the procedure, and the side effects and risks to be aware of.
How Does A Medical Abortion Work?
Medical abortions involve a combination of two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone is prescribed first and is used to block the hormone progesterone.
Misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours later and will cause heavy bleeding and cramping to the stomach area. The entire process can take 2-3 days to complete.
Who Is A Candidate for Medical Abortion?
There are a variety of circumstances where medical abortion is not an option for you. This includes if you:
- Are too far along in your pregnancy. You shouldn’t attempt a medical abortion if you’ve been pregnant for more than 11 weeks. A pregnancy is dated from the first day of your last menstrual period.
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD) currently in place.
- Have a suspected pregnancy outside of the uterus. This is called ectopic pregnancy.
- Have certain medical conditions. These include anemia; some bleeding disorders; chronic adrenal failure; certain heart or blood vessel diseases; severe liver, kidney or lung disease; or an uncontrolled seizure disorder.
- Take a blood thinner or certain steroid medicines.
- Can’t reach a healthcare professional by phone or online, or don’t have access to emergency care.
- Have an allergy to the medicine used in a medical abortion.
Risks and Side Effects
Every kind of medical procedure comes with side effects and risks. For women considering abortion, it’s important to be informed so you can decide if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Documented side effects of medical abortions include but are not limited to:
- Back pain
- Lack or loss of strength
- Stomach pain
- Blurred vision
- Headache
- Anxiety
Risks following a medical abortion are:
- The procedure fails, requiring surgical intervention.
- Heavy bleeding that won’t stop.
- Diarrhea and digestive pain.
- Infection or sepsis
Not every woman will experience all of these side effects, but it’s good to understand what’s possible so you can prepare effectively.
Next Steps
Any type of abortion is a major medical procedure. If you have more questions about how a medical abortion can impact you physically and emotionally, Women’s Hope Medical Clinic is here for you.
Call or text (334) 502-7000 to schedule a confidential, no-cost appointment today! Your health matters to us and we want to support you during this critical time.