A medical abortion (also known as the abortion pill) consists of two drugs taken in succession. As with any medical procedure, there are risks and side effects that you need to be aware of before you consider having one.
Typically, an abortion provider prescribes two abortion drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for the pregnancy to continue. Without progesterone, the pregnancy cannot survive and will end.
About 24-48 hours later, the second drug, misoprostol, is taken at home. Its purpose is to cause the uterus to contract, which will expel the pregnancy through abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding.
Can Anyone Get a Medical Abortion?
No, certain conditions make a medical abortion unsafe. They include:
- If you are more than ten weeks along in your pregnancy (counted from the first day of your last period), the FDA does not approve medical abortions.
- If you have an IUD currently in place
- If the pregnancy is growing outside the uterus (known as an ectopic pregnancy)
- Certain medical conditions, drug allergies, and taking blood thinners or certain steroid medicines also rule out the procedure.
- If you are unable to reach a healthcare provider by phone or online or have access to emergency care
Is It Safe to Order Abortion Pills Online?
There are many reasons, most already stated, that it is better to get a medical abortion under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
- You need to know that you are less than ten weeks gestation. An ultrasound is the best way to determine how far along you are in your pregnancy.
- You need to know that your pregnancy is growing inside your uterus.
- You need medical assistance if problems occur during the procedure.
What Are the Risks of a Medical Abortion, Even Under Professional Care?
As with all medical procedures, risks can occur even under proper supervision.
These potential risks include:
- An incomplete abortion, which may require a surgical procedure
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive symptoms such as upset stomach
What Are Your Next Steps?
First, you need to make sure you are pregnant. Our experienced team at Anderson House can provide you with a free pregnancy test.
Ultrasounds are crucial to determine how far along you are, the location of your pregnancy, and whether or not it’s progressing with a heartbeat. At Anderson House, we can refer you for a free ultrasound if your pregnancy test is positive.
We’re here for you! Contact us today.
