Are you experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and unsure if the abortion pill is the right choice for you?
Before having an abortion, it is important to understand the potential physical and emotional risks of the abortion pill so you can make an informed decision that is best for your health.
What is the Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill is the term used for a medical abortion, which consists of two drugs— mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone is taken first to block the progesterone hormone and prevent the uterus from being able to sustain a pregnancy.
Misoprostol then induces uterine contractions and causes the body to expel the pregnancy through the vagina.
Side Effects of the Abortion Pill
After taking the abortion drugs, you will experience vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping. These drugs may also cause other side effects, including:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Complications of the Abortion Pill
Incomplete Abortion and Infection
The most common complication related to a medical abortion is an incomplete abortion. An incomplete abortion occurs when some or all of the pregnancy tissue remains inside the woman’s uterus despite the attempted abortion. The remaining tissue can cause an infection to develop and has the potential to lead to life-threatening medical complications.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms after taking the abortion drugs:
- A fever for more than 24 hours
- Severe back or abdominal pain
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Saturating two pads in an hour
- Pregnancy symptoms
- Two months without a period
Impacts on Mental Health
It is common for women to experience grief, sadness, a sense of loss, anxiety, and depression following an abortion.
According to the National Library of Medicine, abortion not only impacts a woman’s physical body but also has significant impacts on mental well-being. Pre-existing mental health issues can worsen after an abortion, and new mental health issues can develop as a result of the abortion.
Get the Help You Need
If you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, we can help. Lifeline Pregnancy Center’s trained staff and medical team can provide valuable details about your pregnancy, including pregnancy confirmation and a free ultrasound.
We can also answer any questions you have, provide information on the options available, and discuss the best path forward for your health.
Contact us today for a confidential appointment and get the support you deserve.
