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Some women choose to end their pregnancy with the abortion pill because it seems safer and more convenient than surgical abortion. However, the abortion pill carries some of the same risks as surgical abortion. 

Keep reading to learn about the risks of the abortion pill so you can make an informed decision. 

What is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill is also referred to as a medical abortion. It involves taking two drugs to end the pregnancy. 

Mifepristone, the first drug, is usually taken at a medical facility. This drug blocks progesterone, a hormone the body needs to support a pregnancy, to discontinue the pregnancy. 

Within 48 hours of taking the first drug, a woman takes misoprostol. Misoprostol works by causing the uterus to contract (squeeze). This squeezing forces the pregnancy out of the woman’s body.

Common Side Effects 

When taking the abortion pill, a woman can expect the following side effects:

  • Vaginal bleeding
  • Cramping
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache

Risks of the Abortion Pill

Like every medical procedure, the abortion pill has risks that vary by situation. Being aware of the risks is essential to protecting your health. Risks of medical abortion can include: 

  • Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
  • An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
  • Heavy and prolonged bleeding
  • Infection
  • Fever
  • Digestive system discomfort

Women taking the abortion pill are sent home to recover, so they will need to monitor themselves for signs and symptoms of complications from the procedure. A woman must seek immediate medical attention if she has any of the following symptoms:

  • Heavy bleeding — soaking two or more pads an hour for two hours
  • Severe abdominal or back pain
  • Fever lasting more than 24 hours
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge

Learn More

At New Hope Pregnancy Center, we offer free consultations so you can learn more about the options available to you. Schedule an appointment online today.

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