If you’re pregnant, you may be considering abortion but have hesitations due to the potential health impacts. 

Because every woman’s body responds differently after an abortion, it can be challenging to predict the health effects you may experience.  

Continue reading to learn more facts about medical abortion and the potential impacts on your health and safety. 

Medical Abortion

Medical abortion, commonly referred to as the “abortion pill,” uses two drugs to terminate a pregnancy, typically within the first 10 weeks.

Mifepristone is administered first to block progesterone and thin the lining of the uterus. This thinning causes the pregnancy to detach. Then, misoprostol is taken to create uterine contractions that lead to the expulsion of the pregnancy through the vagina. 

Cramping and bleeding are expected as the body expels the pregnancy. 

Potential risks of medical abortion include: 

  • Incomplete abortion, which may require a follow-up surgical procedure
  • Ongoing pregnancy
  • Infection 
  • Fever
  • Heavy, prolonged bleeding 
  • Digestive symptoms (upset stomach)

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Soak through two or more pads in an hour for two hours
  • Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
  • Racing heart
  • Chills or body aches
  • A fever for more than four hours or that begins after you take misoprostol
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge

Get Help Today

Navigating an unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming. 

While opting for an abortion may seem like the simplest option, for the sake of your health, it is critical to have an ultrasound scan and be evaluated by a medical provider before making your final decision. 

Choices provides no-cost services for pregnant women, such as lab-quality pregnancy testing and ultrasound scans. After learning more about your pregnancy, our trusted staff can answer your questions and discuss your options.  

You don’t have to walk this journey alone. 

Contact us today for your confidential appointment. 

Choices does not provide or refer for abortions. 

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

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