Feeling urgency when facing an unplanned pregnancy is normal as you search for a solution. In your search, you have probably discovered the abortion pill, also known as a medical abortion.

Despite advanced abortion methods, there are some risks, such as an incomplete abortion or infection. Read this article for more details and recommended health screenings before scheduling an abortion procedure.

How Does the Abortion Pill Work?

The abortion pill is a series of two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol.

Mifepristone ends the pregnancy by acting as an antiprogestin. Blocking the uterus from receiving progesterone stops growth and terminates the pregnancy.

The second pill, misoprostol, is taken to force uterine cramping so your body expels the fetus and pregnancy tissues.

What Are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?

According to the Mayo Clinic, potential risks of medical abortion include:

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

Next Steps

We offer no-cost pregnancy services at Options for Women St. Croix Valley, including pregnancy testing and ultrasounds.

If you’ve already received a positive result via an at-home pregnancy test, we recommend a complimentary ultrasound to verify the pregnancy’s age, location, and viability.

Because up to 26% of pregnancies end in a miscarriage, knowing if the pregnancy is still growing helps you understand what procedures you may qualify for.

Because the abortion pill is FDA-approved only up to 10 weeks gestational age, knowing how long you have been pregnant and the pregnancy’s viability can help you choose your next steps.

One condition to be mindful of is an ectopic pregnancy. An ultrasound shows the location of the pregnancy. If it is located outside the womb, it is an ectopic pregnancy, which can be life-threatening if left untreated. Abortion pills would not be successful for treating this type of pregnancy

Our clinic provides a safe, confidential space for you to gather more information and learn about pregnancy options. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

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