If you’ve recently discovered you’re unexpectedly pregnant, you may be looking into your options. One of your options early in a pregnancy is what is known as a medical abortion. This is the process of using drugs to terminate a pregnancy. 

It’s critical to be fully informed about abortion and its impact on your health and wellness. That’s why you can reach out to us at A Pregnancy Center and Clinic. Access free pregnancy services and options counseling so you can make a decision you can feel confident about. 

About Medical Abortion 

A medical abortion uses two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol, to end and expel a pregnancy. 

You may have heard it commonly referred to as the “abortion pill,” despite being a series of drugs. It’s FDA-approved through ten weeks of gestation (how far along you are).

The process works by first receiving a prescription from an abortion clinic or provider. However, keep in mind that Louisiana currently bans abortion.

Then, the first drug, mifepristone, is taken at a clinic or at home. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone to end the pregnancy. Next, you would take misoprostol hours or days later to cause uterine contractions and expel the embryo from the uterus. 

Side Effects and Risks

It’s essential to recognize that medical abortions, while they may seem straightforward, are indeed serious medical interventions. Like any medical procedure, they come with potential side effects and risks that you should carefully consider. 

The abortion pill will cause abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding. You may notice other side effects such as nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, headache, and diarrhea.

There are also risks to be aware of, including:

• An ongoing pregnancy (if the drugs don’t work)
• Heavy, prolonged bleeding
• Infection
• Fever
• Digestive system discomfort
• Incomplete abortion (which may require a surgical procedure)

Before Scheduling a Medical Abortion

You’ll want to get critical details about your pregnancy before you seek a medical abortion. An ultrasound scan will tell you your gestational age, the location of your pregnancy, and whether or not your pregnancy is progressing with a heartbeat.

These details will unlock your options moving forward and give you a clear view of your pregnancy’s health. You can receive a free ultrasound at A Pregnancy Center and Clinic.

Contact us to make a confidential appointment in a safe environment. 

Last updated: June 5, 2024