Researching the abortion pill often comes with questions. What happens after taking the drugs? How much bleeding is normal? What other side effects can occur, and how can someone tell the difference between an expected reaction and a possible complication?

The abortion pill is not a single drug. It involves two different drugs that work in separate stages and can cause different effects. Understanding what each drug does, what side effects may occur, and what risks are possible can help provide a clearer picture of what the process involves.

Before making a pregnancy decision, it is also important to understand the details of the pregnancy, including how far along the pregnancy is and where the pregnancy is developing. The Acadiana Pregnancy Center & Clinic can help you get these answers with our free pregnancy testing and ultrasounds. 

We offer confidential support free from judgment or pressure. Schedule your appointment today to get the clarity you deserve. 

Here is what to know about the abortion pill and its possible side effects.

The Abortion Pill Consists of Two Drugs

The term “abortion pill” can make the process sound like a single drug taken once. However, the regimen involves two different drugs taken at separate points, with each one serving a different purpose.

Mifepristone is taken first. It blocks progesterone, a hormone that helps the pregnancy grow and develop. Without progesterone, the pregnancy detaches from the uterine lining and ends.

Misoprostol is then taken 24 to 48 hours later. It causes the uterus to contract, which leads to abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding as pregnancy tissue passes from the uterus.

Because the drugs work differently, the effects associated with each stage of the process can also be different. Cramping and bleeding are associated with misoprostol as the uterus contracts.

The FDA has approved the mifepristone and misoprostol regimen for ending a pregnancy through 10 weeks of gestation.

Side Effects of the Abortion Pill

Cramping and vaginal bleeding will occur with this abortion method. Other common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Fever or chills

The intensity and duration of these effects can vary. Bleeding may be heavier than a typical menstrual period, particularly while the pregnancy is passing.

Possible Risks 

Certain risks are associated with the abortion pill. Prolonged heavy bleeding may indicate an incomplete abortion or infection. An ongoing pregnancy could also occur if the drugs don’t work. 

Severe abdominal pain, prolonged heavy bleeding, sustained fever, foul-smelling discharge, and feeling significantly unwell after taking the abortion drugs can require prompt medical evaluation.

Why Pregnancy Details Matter

Knowing how far along the pregnancy is and where the pregnancy is developing gives you information that a positive test cannot provide.

An ultrasound can offer a closer look at the pregnancy and provide information about gestational age, location, and development. It may also reveal findings that need further medical evaluation.

An ectopic pregnancy (where the pregnancy implants outside of the uterus) can cause abdominal pain and bleeding, which can also occur after taking abortion drugs. Because abortion drugs do not treat an ectopic pregnancy, knowing where the pregnancy is developing is important before making a decision.

Taking the abortion pill beyond the FDA-approved 10-week gestational limit could potentially increase the risk of complications. 

It is also important to remember that not every positive pregnancy test means the pregnancy is continuing normally. Around 10% to 20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage, which can sometimes occur before a woman realizes anything is wrong.

Understand the Facts at the Acadiana Pregnancy Center & Clinic

If an unexpected pregnancy has raised questions about the abortion pill, we can help get you the accurate information you need. 

Our caring team offers free pregnancy services, information about your pregnancy, and options counseling where you will learn about the support and resources available, with the opportunity to express any concerns and ask questions. 

Schedule your confidential appointment today.

The Acadiana Pregnancy Center & Clinic does not provide or refer for abortions.

All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.