What Is a Medical Abortion?
If you’re in the early stages of pregnancy and considering your options, you may have come across the term “medical abortion.”
Often called “the abortion pill,” it’s a drug-based procedure that ends an early pregnancy. Before making a decision, it’s essential to understand how medical abortion works, the side effects, and the potential risks involved.
At Nova Women’s Health, we believe knowledge is empowering. We provide accurate information, supportive care, and free pregnancy confirmation services so you can make an educated choice.
Schedule a confidential appointment to confirm your pregnancy and receive helpful services and information on options and resources.
Keep reading to learn more about medical abortion.
How Does a Medical Abortion Work?
A medical abortion uses two prescription drugs called mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, which the body needs to sustain a pregnancy. Without it, the pregnancy will end, and the lining of the uterus will thin. Misoprostol, taken 24 to 48 hours later, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding.
The amount of pain and vaginal bleeding will depend on the woman, but the bleeding will be heavier than a monthly period. Blood clots up to the size of a lemon are considered normal (Blood clots should be no bigger than a quarter during a period).
The farther along in pregnancy, the larger the pregnancy, which is why the procedure is only approved by the FDA through ten weeks of gestation.
Although these drugs may be prescribed in a clinic, the process usually happens at home. This means you are responsible for monitoring your symptoms and seeking medical attention if you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, or signs of infection.
What Are the Side Effects and Risks?
In addition to the side effects of vaginal bleeding, abdominal cramping, and pain, women might also experience vomiting, fever, chills, diarrhea, and headache.
The risks can include infection, fever, heavy or prolonged bleeding, digestive system discomfort, or an incomplete abortion that requires a follow-up procedure.
Why an Ultrasound Is Important
Before taking the abortion pill, it’s essential to confirm how far along you are and whether your pregnancy is located inside the uterus. An ultrasound provides this vital information and can rule out complications such as ectopic pregnancy, which is not treated with abortion drugs.
Take the next step toward clarity. Schedule your appointment with our medical team today for compassionate and confidential care at Nova Women’s Health.
Pregnancy Testing
Think you're pregnant? Did you miss your period? Maybe your mind is racing a million miles a minute. We understand how surreal this time can feel, but you are stronger than you know. Visit Nova for no-cost, lab-quality pregnancy testing.
Limited Ultrasound
Wondering if you need an ultrasound or what an ultrasound appointment is like? An ultrasound is the second step to clarity after getting positive pregnancy testing results. This step is essential for learning more about your pregnancy options.
STI Testing & Treatment
If you’re sexually active, get tested for STDs today to get the clarity you need. Many STDs do not have immediate symptoms. Our medical team is here to walk with you and help you understand your test results. We offer no-cost limited STD treatments as well.
Pregnancy Testing
Think you're pregnant? Did you miss your period? Maybe your mind is racing a million miles a minute. We understand how surreal this time can feel, but you are stronger than you know. Visit Nova for no-cost, lab-quality pregnancy testing.
Limited Ultrasound
Wondering if you need an ultrasound or what an ultrasound appointment is like? An ultrasound is the second step to clarity after getting positive pregnancy testing results. This step is essential for learning more about your pregnancy options.
STI Testing & Treatment
If you’re sexually active, get tested for STDs today to get the clarity you need. Many STDs do not have immediate symptoms. Our medical team is here to walk with you and help you understand your test results. We offer no-cost limited STD treatments as well.
