Frequently Asked Questions About Abortion
What is the abortion pill?
The abortion pill, also known as medication abortion, is a non-surgical method used to terminate an early pregnancy. It involves taking two medications: mifepristone, which blocks the hormone progesterone necessary for pregnancy growth, followed by misoprostol within 24 to 48 hours to induce contractions and expel the pregnancy from the uterus.
How effective is the abortion pill?
The abortion pill is highly effective, with about 98% of individuals successfully terminating their pregnancies using this method.
What are the side effects of the abortion pill?
Common side effects include pain and cramping, bleeding with the passage of blood clots and tissue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, and hot flashes or fever. Serious complications are rare, occurring in less than 0.4% of cases.
How do I know if I have complications after taking the abortion pill?
While complications are rare, signs to watch for include heavy bleeding (soaking more than two maxi pads per hour for more than two hours), feeling dizzy or light-headed, persistent severe pain, or a fever lasting more than 24 hours or higher than 102.2°F. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
Is the abortion pill safe?
Yes, the abortion pill has been used safely in the U.S. for over 20 years. When taken as directed by a healthcare professional, it is a safe and effective method for terminating early pregnancies.