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If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, you’ve probably come across the term, “medical abortion” while researching your options. You may have also heard it called the “abortion pill.”
Because it’s often described as something you can do at home, some women assume the process is simple or similar to taking other prescription drugs. The reality is that there is much more involved than one may realize.
To make an informed decision about your pregnancy, it’s important to understand how medical abortion works, why an ultrasound is an essential first step, and what you can realistically expect during the process.
Read on to learn the top three facts you might not know about medical abortion, or contact Vida Medical Clinic to find a safe space to talk and learn more, all at no cost to you.
1. Medical Abortion Involves Two Different Medications
One fact that surprises many women is that a medical abortion doesn’t involve just one pill.
The process actually uses two different medications that work together to end a pregnancy and expel it from the uterus.
The first medication blocks progesterone, a hormone your body needs to continue supporting a pregnancy. Without progesterone, the uterine lining begins to break down, and the pregnancy detaches and can no longer continue to develop.
The second medication is usually taken 24 to 48 hours later, which causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through the vagina via uterine contractions.
Because the process takes place at home, some may expect it to feel similar to a heavy menstrual period. While every woman’s experience is different, many report that the cramping and bleeding are significantly more painful than they anticipated and are often caught off guard, unprepared for the pain and possible side effects.
Before taking any abortion medications, it’s important to understand both the expected side effects and the warning signs that require emergency medical care. Knowing what to expect can help you make a more informed decision and prepare you for the possibility that the experience may be more physically demanding than anticipated.
2. An Ultrasound Is an Important Step Before A Medical Abortion
Before taking any abortion medications, it’s important to know exactly what is happening with your pregnancy.
While a home pregnancy test can tell you that pregnancy hormones are present, it cannot answer critical medical questions that could affect your medical care and your options moving forward. This is why an ultrasound is so important.
An ultrasound is the only way to verify:
- Whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus
- How far along you are
- Whether the pregnancy is viable
This information is essential for protecting your health, especially if you’re considering a medical abortion.
For example, an ultrasound can identify an ectopic pregnancy, which occurs when a pregnancy develops outside the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy is a serious medical condition that requires immediate medical care and cannot be treated with abortion medications.
An ultrasound also provides an accurate estimate of gestational age, which is critical to know, since medical abortion is only approved by the FDA through 10 weeks of pregnancy. If you take abortion medication and you’re further along, you’re putting yourself at risk for potentially life-threatening complications, such as an incomplete abortion (when parts of the pregnancy remain in your uterus, potentially leading to infection).
3. You Can Change Your Mind After the First Stage/Pill of a Medical Abortion
As a patient, you have a right to ask questions of your doctor and to change your mind, even at the last minute. Many are surprised to find out that you can even change your mind after the first stage/pill of a medical abortion. If done in time, it may be possible to reverse the effects of the abortion pill and continue your pregnancy. The 24/7 Abortion Pill Reversal Hotline is available at (877) 558-0333.
No one can force you to get an abortion, even if you are a minor–neither your parents nor your partner. It’s your choice. You have the right to make every decision without pressure or coercion from others. For legal help, call The Justice Foundation at (210) 614-7157 or email info@txjf.org.
Many women have initial relief after an abortion, but are surprised by regret and difficult emotions they experience months or even years later. Vida is here for you and can help you find post-abortion support.
Get the Facts Before You Decide
At Vida, we believe you deserve accurate information before making any pregnancy decision.
Vida Medical Clinic offers a safe, confidential place where you can ask questions, receive a free ultrasound, and learn more about all of your pregnancy options. Our team is here to provide evidence-based information and compassionate support so you can make an informed decision.
If you are feeling pressure to make a quick decision, know that you have the right to take your time and make an informed choice with complete and accurate information about your pregnancy.
Contact Vida Medical Clinic today to request your no-cost, confidential appointment and receive the compassion, information, and support you deserve without judgement.
We do not provide or refer for abortions at Vida; We are here to help you understand all of your options so that you can make an informed decision.