An unexpected pregnancy can leave you with countless questions and concerns, especially when considering your options. If a medical abortion is something you’re thinking about, understanding the facts is essential for making choices about your health and future.
Here’s what you need to know about medical abortion so you can feel informed to make a decision that aligns with your unique situation.
1: Medical Abortion is FDA-Approved Through 10 Weeks of Pregnancy
A medical abortion, also known as the “abortion pill, is FDA-approved for use within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. This timeframe is calculated based on gestational age, which measures how far along your pregnancy is.
Since tracking apps or estimates can sometimes be unreliable, getting a sonogram is the most accurate way to date your pregnancy and confirm eligibility for this method.
2: Medical Abortion Involves Two Drugs, Not Just One
Despite being called “the abortion pill,” medical abortion actually requires two different drugs. The first, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone, which is necessary to sustain a pregnancy. The second, misoprostol, is taken 24-48 hours later and causes uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy.
3: The Second Pill is Taken at Home
While the first medication is sometimes taken at the clinic, the second pill is typically taken at home. This means you’ll need to understand what symptoms to expect and when to seek medical attention for potential complications, such as heavy bleeding or severe pain.
4: Medical Abortion May Be More Painful Than Expected
Many women are surprised by the severity of the pain associated with medical abortion. Cramping, nausea, and general discomfort are common and can last for hours. Descriptions of “period-like pain” often fail to capture the intensity of the experience.
There’s More to Consider
Medical abortion is a serious medical procedure, and it’s important to fully understand the process and potential risks.
Embrace provides the information, care, and support you need with no-cost pregnancy testing, limited sonograms, abortion information, and resources so you can feel empowered to make an informed decision.
Contact Embrace today for a confidential appointment. While Embrace does not provide or refer for abortion, you will receive support as you navigate your options.
*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.