How Does the Abortion Pill Work?  

Using the abortion pill is different than the morning-after pill or Plan B. It is a two-step process for ending a pregnancy that doesn’t require surgery or anesthesia.  

According to the Mayo Clinic, the first pill you take is Mifepristone or Mifeprex, and the second (Misoprostol or Cytotec) is taken hours or days later.  

Your body naturally produces progesterone for a healthy pregnancy. Mifeprex blocks progesterone, thinning the uterus and stopping the embryo from growing. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and push the embryo out through the vagina.   

What Are the Risks and Side-Effects of the Abortion Pill? 

According to the FDA, anyone using the abortion pill will experience vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping. Side effects from the abortion pill can also include: 

  • Fever 
  • Chills 
  • Nausea 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Infection 
  • Vomiting 
  • Headache 
  • Prolonged heavy bleeding 

Apart from side effects, there are also the possible risks that the abortion may be incomplete, which may require a surgical abortion. There is also the possibility that the procedure may not even work.

Finally, one should be cautious when taking the abortion pill with other medications.  

Am I Eligible for the Abortion Pill?  

The Mayo Clinic mentions that some women are not eligible for the abortion pill. It is not an option for you if you: 

  • Have been pregnant for more than nine weeks (from the start of your last period) 
  • Have certain medical conditions (like bleeding disorders; heart or blood vessel diseases; severe liver, kidney, or lung disease; or an uncontrolled seizure disorder)
  • Currently have an IUD (intrauterine device) in place 
  • Have an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy that is outside of the uterus) 
  • Take blood thinners or some steroid medications 
  • Have bleeding problems 
  • Have porphyria 
  • Have problems with your adrenal glands, like chronic adrenal failure 
  • Have an allergy to the medications used for the abortion 
  • Are unable to make follow-up visits with your provider or emergency care 

Before any medical decision, you should always get a complete physical while giving an entire health history. Also, be sure to confirm your pregnancy with a pregnancy test and ultrasound.  

Can It Be Reversed? 

If you have started the abortion process by taking Mifeprex but change your mind, there is a possibility it can be reversed. The attempt at reversing the abortion pill occurs by giving high doses of progesterone (either orally or by injection).  

However, this can only potentially happen within the first 24 hours and if the misoprostol dose has not yet been taken. While there are limited studies and some advocates against abortion pill reversal, it has been proven to be effective and safe, as documented in this case study from the National Legal Center for the Medically Dependent and Disabled, Inc. 

If you want to start the abortion pill reversal process and have only taken the first abortion pill (Mifepristone), it’s not too late! 

Contact the Abortion Pill Rescue Network at 1-877-558-0333 to request the abortion pill reversal. You’re not alone! 

You’re Not Alone 

Understanding your options can be challenging and scary, but you don’t have to go it alone. 

At the Hope Clinic, we want to give you peace of mind knowing you have all the information you need to keep your health and future first. You can feel confident in your decision with a free, confidential ultrasound appointment and our professional medical staff available to answer your questions.  

Schedule your appointment today.