If you’re considering taking the abortion pill, we’re glad you’re asking questions. This is a serious medical decision, and it’s essential to understand how it works, the risks involved, and how it might affect you physically and emotionally.
Read on to learn the essentials you need to know before seeking the abortion pill—or contact Vie Medical Clinic today to find a safe space to talk and get your questions answered.
How the Abortion Pill Works
The abortion pill, also known as a medical abortion, actually consists of two drugs:
- Mifepristone: The first pill blocks progesterone, the hormone necessary to sustain pregnancy. Without it, the pregnancy detaches from the uterine lining and eventually ends.
- Misoprostol: Taken 24-48 hours later, this second pill causes the uterus to contract, expelling the pregnancy out through the vagina.
While this method may seem simple, it is not without risks. It’s important to know what to expect and the potential complications.
Physical Side Effects of the Abortion Pill
After taking the abortion drugs, you will inevitably experience vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping. However, some women have reported that they weren’t prepared for the severe pain. As one woman shares,
I cried and screamed for eight hours. I was in bed, all alone, in a huge amount of pain. My husband didn’t know what to do. I called the emergency room to tell them I had terrible pain, and they said it was quite normal. I felt like a goner. Because of the pain… and I was so exhausted. With no strength in my body. I don’t remember walking. Like a sack of potatoes, from the bed to the toilet to the shower. Back to bed—vomited. Back to the toilet. (Participant 12)
Along with bleeding and pain, you may experience:
- Heavy bleeding that can last for several days or weeks
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Fever or chills (which can indicate infection)
- Incomplete abortion that can lead to a potentially life-threatening infection
In some cases, excessive bleeding or infection can become deadly, which is why seeking medical attention if symptoms worsen is critical.
Mental Health Risks
Abortion doesn’t just affect the body—it can also take a mental and emotional toll. Some women report experiencing:
- Guilt, regret, or sadness
- Anxiety or depression
- Increased emotional distress if they felt pressured into the abortion
- Difficulty coping if they have preexisting mental health conditions
The emotional impact of abortion varies from woman to woman, but it’s important to be aware of these possibilities before making a decision.
Vie Medical Clinic Is Here for You
If you’re considering abortion, you deserve to know all your options in a safe, judgment-free space. At Vie Medical Clinic, we provide accurate medical information, free consultations, and a supportive place to ask questions.
You are not alone. Contact Vie Medical Clinic today to learn more about your pregnancy options and get the care and support you need to take the next steps with confidence.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
