What You Should Know About the Abortion Pill

If you’ve recently found out that you are pregnant, you may be weighing your options and deciding what to do. One of those options is having an abortion. Before you decide anything, it’s incredibly important to fully understand what is happening in your body. If you are considering abortion, the next step involves learning more so you can make an informed decision, and we at Life Forward are here to help you on your journey.

We have a team of medical professionals that you can talk to and ask questions. They will provide some answers but will also encourage you to consider and research the facts and information shared about each option. We also have experienced Client Educators who are trained, willing to listen, and provide a safe and neutral environment. We want you to feel heard and understood as you share intimate thoughts and feelings. Please reach out to Life Forward to get started today!

In this article, we’ll cover some of the most important things to know about the abortion pill and what you should consider when thinking about using it. This includes common questions about the abortion pill, the different ways that taking the pill can affect you, and other information about the abortion pill experience to help make sure you are informed and prepared. 

What Is the Name of the Abortion Pill?

Taking an abortion pill is referred to as a “medication abortion,” a “medical abortion,” or a “chemical abortion.” The most common and widely-used abortion pill involves two main medications: mifepristone and misoprostol. The main mifepristone (also known as RU 486) pill used in the United States is called Mifeprex. These two medications are used in combination for a medication abortion.

How Does the Abortion Pill Work?

As mentioned above, the two types of medication are used together, so a medication abortion actually involves multiple pills. Over half of all abortions in the United States are done with abortion pills. You can use the abortion pill(s) to cause an abortion early on in your pregnancy—up to the 10th week of pregnancy or up to 70 days after the first day of your last menstrual period.

The abortion pill works by blocking progesterone—commonly referred to as the “pregnancy hormone.” Without progesterone, the pregnancy cannot continue, therefore being “aborted.”

Any time you consider a medical procedure or treatment, we recommend oversight by a doctor or other medical professional. Sometimes they may want to perform an ultrasound to ensure that your pregnancy is less than 10 weeks along.

The first pill you will take is mifepristone. Then, between 24 to 48 hours later, you will take a misoprostol pill to complete the abortion. It’s recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before deciding to move forward with a medication abortion. If you do choose to have a medication abortion, it’s a good idea to visit with your provider after you’ve taken the pills to ensure that everything is okay and you are healthy.

Abortion Pill Side Effects

There are certain side effects that may occur with medication abortions. Some of the most common abortion pill side effects include:

• Feeling tired

• Cramps

• Vaginal bleeding or spotting

• Tender breasts, which may leak a milky discharge

• Chills

• Fever

• Nausea

Many of these side effects should resolve themselves within 24 hours of taking your misoprostol dosage (your 2nd pill). However, if you experience nausea, fever, diarrhea, or vomiting lasting past that time, you should talk to your doctor or healthcare provider right away.

How Much Does the Abortion Pill Cost?

The pills for a medication abortion can cost up to $750, but what you actually pay will depend on where you are, your insurance situation, and what your doctor or healthcare provider charges. Reach out to them directly to figure out the exact costs of a medication abortion.

How Life Forward Can Help

At Life Forward, we are here to help women in the Cincinnati area who are pregnant or think they may be pregnant. In addition to consultations, pregnancy testing, and ultrasounds, we offer other educational and supportive services—as well as referrals to other community resources—at no cost to you.

Our staff of trained Client Educators and medical professionals will assist you and connect you to the resources and help you need. These resources can help you be more prepared during your pregnancy and make the best decision for yourself. Learn more about the services we offer or contact us at 513.961.7777 to schedule an appointment today!