Taking the Abortion Pill: What the Abortion Provider “Forgets” to Mention

February 5, 2026

Abortion providers say taking the abortion pill is as easy as taking Tylenol, but is that true? Not according to some anonymous Reddit users. 

There are several health concerns that many abortion providers choose not to discuss. Even the Mayo Clinic mentions a few of these. If you’re considering using the abortion pill method to end your unexpected pregnancy, make sure you have all the facts first. 

Although we do not perform or refer for abortion, we’re not afraid to share factual, medically based information. Let’s take a closer look at some of the surprises women had when taking the abortion drugs. 

You owe it to yourself to be prepared. These facts are just the tip of the iceberg. If you want to know more, schedule a no-cost, confidential appointment to talk with a knowledgeable medical professional.

Your Abortion Can Be Incomplete

“Abortion regret, failed MA [Medical Abortion] at 7w [weeks]

My abortion was incomplete and after tremendous pain for two weeks I had to undergo a surgical abortion to remove the rest of the retained products.” Anonymous Reddit User

Healthcare providers also refer to an incomplete abortion as “retained products of conception.” This term means the pregnancy ended, but the drugs did not expel all of the tissue, which can lead to infection.

Symptoms include heavy or irregular bleeding, an enlarged and tender uterus, fever, and pelvic pain. You will need to return to your abortion provider, who may recommend a surgical procedure.

You Could Have an Ongoing Pregnancy

“Failed medical abortion – pills being taken for the second time

Hi I had a medical abortion the beginning of December, bleeding and clots, however after two positive tests I was taken for a scan and they discovered I am still pregnant.”  
Anonymous Reddit User

It is possible to have an ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work. The FDA approves the use of mifepristone, the first abortion drug, through 10 weeks of pregnancy only.  The further along you are in your pregnancy, the less effective the drugs are. 

You May Experience Emotional Consequences

“Didn’t expect the emotional toll after…

Physically, everything went fine, but mentally and emotionally…I wasn’t ready for this at all. Lately I’ve been feeling really sad, heavy, and kind of numb.”  Anonymous Reddit User

According to one study, some women do struggle emotionally after an abortion. The study found that women who had an abortion had elevated rates of mental illness compared to women who hadn’t had an abortion. 

Many women on Reddit express sadness, regret, and guilt over choosing abortion. Be sure you not only review your physical health before an abortion but also talk about your mental health. 

For Some, the Pain Is Intense

“5 hours after misoprostol, no bleeding, and the worst pain of my life

I need someone to tell me that the pain is going to end. I don’t care if it doesn’t work anymore, I just need the pain to stop.”   Anonymous Reddit User

Many women report intense pain after taking misoprostol, the second drug. Many say they were unprepared for the amount of bleeding and pain. 

Women also report many of the other symptoms, like diarrhea, vomiting, headaches, and chills. Be sure you get as much information as possible beforehand.

Where Can You Get More Information?

Our medical professionals are happy to share medical information about the abortion pill method with you. There’s more to know, like what you can expect to see and feel. 

If you’re considering the abortion pill for your unexpected pregnancy, get the facts first. Schedule a no-cost, confidential appointment with us. You can also take a no-cost pregnancy test. If your test is positive, we’ll schedule an ultrasound. Contact us today! 

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