If you have recently learned you are facing an unplanned pregnancy, a medical abortion may sound like a quick and simple answer.
But before making any decision, gathering reliable information about your health and options is one of the most important steps you can take.
Keep reading to learn how medical abortion works, who is eligible, and the risks involved. You can also reach out to our caring team at Oasis Medical Center for free and confidential support.
How Medical Abortion Works
Medical abortion, often called the abortion pill, is not a single pill. It is a combination of two prescription drugs used to end an existing pregnancy.
The first drug, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone. Without progesterone, the pregnancy detaches from the uterine wall and stops growing.
Roughly 24 to 48 hours later, a second drug called misoprostol is taken. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and push the pregnancy and related tissue out of the body through vaginal bleeding.
Who Is Eligible?
Many women assume the abortion pill is safe for everyone, but that is not the case.
According to the FDA, medical abortion is only approved through the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. After that point, the risk of serious complications can increase.
You may not be a candidate for medical abortion if you:
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD) in place
- Take a blood thinner or certain steroid medications
- Have a bleeding disorder, heart or blood vessel disease, severe liver or kidney disease, or an uncontrolled seizure disorder
- Have an ectopic pregnancy or are already miscarrying
- Are unable to access follow-up care or emergency medical attention
- Have an allergy to the drugs involved
A limited OB ultrasound is the most reliable way to confirm how far along your pregnancy is, where it is located, and whether it is viable.
These details directly affect your eligibility and your safety.
Risks Worth Knowing
Even when used as directed, medical abortion carries real physical risks, including:
- Prolonged or heavy bleeding
- Incomplete abortion, which may require a follow-up surgical procedure
- Infection, often signaled by fever lasting more than 24 hours or foul-smelling discharge
- Severe digestive symptoms such as diarrhea and cramping
Studies have also linked abortion to mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and substance abuse for some women.
We Are Here to Help
At Oasis Medical Center, we believe every woman deserves clear, accurate information about their pregnancy and the options available.
Our compassionate team offers free pregnancy testing and a limited OB ultrasound, along with time and space to have your questions answered.
Having those answers can give you peace of mind and the confidence to take the next step that is right for you and your future.
Contact us today to schedule your free and confidential appointment.
