What is the abortion pill?
The abortion pill, also known as RU486, is a chemical abortion method consisting of two different medications that are taken after confirming a pregnancy: Mifepristone and Misoprostol. According to FDA regulations, these medications should be prescribed and dispensed under the supervision of a healthcare provider who meets certain qualifications.
Are there serious side effects or complications that can arise from using the abortion pill?
Yes, there may be serious side effects to the abortion pill, so please discuss these with a medical professional before proceeding. Here are some of the common physical and emotional side effects a person may experience after taking the abortion pill.
Common physical side effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Chills
- Headaches
- Dizziness
Common emotional side effects:
- Regret
- Anger
- Anxiety
- Depression
Possible physical complications that would require immediate medical attention:
- Fever lasting more than 24 hours
- Severe abdominal or back pain
- Heavy bleeding (going through two or more pads in an hour)
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Potential complications of a chemical abortion include:
- An infection caused by an incomplete or failed abortion where the fetus remains in the uterus
- An ongoing pregnancy if the abortion pill does not work
- An undetected ectopic pregnancy, which can be dangerous and is a medical emergency
- Blood clots remaining in the uterus
- Heavy bleeding
If you have second thoughts after taking the first pill, information on the abortion reversal pill is available here.
What is the first step?
Real Options will schedule an appointment with one of our highly trained options counselors, who will assist you with a free pre-abortion assessment. During the appointment, you will also receive a medical assessment from one of our medical professionals, which may include testing, labs, and a sonogram. These are important steps before you decide to take the abortion pill. These services will help confirm your pregnancy is in the uterus, the age of your pregnancy, and detect a fetal heartbeat.