FAQ

What is an Abortion Pill?

 

An Abortion Pill (RU 486 / Mifepristone and Misoprostol) is taken orally and results in the termination of a pregnancy without surgery or any invasive measures.

 

The Abortion Pill is also referred to as a Medication Abortion or Medical Abortion and can only be taken if you are less than 11 weeks pregnant or it has been 70 days since you last menstruated.

 

For more information on how the Abortion Pill works, click here.

 

Will it Hurt?

 

Most women compare the experience to a heavy period, cramping, and heavier than usual bleeding. The longer you’ve been pregnant, the greater the cramping and bleeding.

 

 

How Successful is a Medication Abortion?

 

This method is successful in about 98% of cases.

 

 

What Should I Do if I Choose a Medication Abortion?

 

During your visit,  you will have an ultrasound and we will provide you with instructions for medical pill abortion and post-abortion care, and administer the first Abortion Pill.  You will take the second pill home with you and swallow it within 24 to 48 hours of the first pill.

 

If it’s possible for you, we will schedule a follow-up visit to make sure that the abortion was successful and you are in good health, and also provide you with birth control options.

 

 

How Does the Abortion Pill Work?

 

The Abortion Pill is actually two pills:

 

1^st pill: Mifepristone or RU-486 is taken at the clinic. Mifepristone has been used safely by millions of women. The pill works by blocking a hormone called progesterone. This will terminate the pregnancy by causing the tissues to separate from the uterus lining – basically resulting in a miscarriage.

 

2^nd pill: Misoprostol tablets are taken in a private, comfortable place sometime between 24 and 48 hours after you’ve taken the Mifepristone pill. Misoprostol causes uterine contraction, the cervix to soften and bleeding – which is necessary to abort the pregnancy.

 

 

How Long Does the Medication Abortion Take?

 

Typically, anywhere between 2-24 hours after taking the Misoprostol pill.

 

 

Are There Ever Complications with Taking the Abortion Pill?

 

The Abortion Pill is a very reliable method, with a success rate of 98%.

 

In the rare situation when the bleeding is heavy or goes on too long, it will be necessary to have a suctioning of the uterus performed. This is only in the rarest of cases and will be done at no extra cost or fees.

 

 

When Shouldn’t I Take the Abortion Pill?

 

You should not take the Abortion Pill if you…

 

• Are more than 11 weeks pregnant.
• Are taking anti-clotting medication or have blood clotting disorders.
• Have severe heart, liver, or active inflammatory bowel disease.
• Have certain severe kidney problems.
• Have a serious immune system problem, such as HIV.
• Have seizures more than once a week.
• Take any medicine that should not be combined with Misoprostol.

 

 

Can I Get Pregnant After Having a Medication Abortion?

 

Yes – You can become pregnant again in as little as 2 weeks after your abortion!

 

Therefore, it is very important that you start using birth control within 7 days after your abortion. If you would like to talk about birth control options, please ask one of our doctors or staff members.

 

 

What Should I Do if I Think I Am Experiencing Complications from the Abortion?

 

Complications are extremely rare. But we don’t want you to worry! If you have any concerns, we will provide you with a 24-hour phone number, which you should never hesitate to call.

 

Call us immediately with any issue that might arise. Most concerns are typically addressed and resolved on the phone when you speak with our experienced staff.

 

Only in the rarest of occasions will we ask patients to come in, or direct them to an emergency room.

 

 

When Will I Get My First Period After the Abortion?

 

Most women have their first normal period about 6 weeks after the abortion. Between the abortion and that first period, you may experience some spotting. Your first period will be heavier than usual but subsequent periods should be normal.

 

Please note – you can become pregnant again in as little as 2 weeks, so you need to start taking birth control after 7 days.

 

 

What Do I Do if the Abortion Pill Doesn’t Work?

 

We always follow-up a Medication Abortion with an ultrasound. In the unlikely event that the Abortion Pill is unsuccessful, we will perform a Procedural (surgical) Abortion with no extra charges.

 

If you haven’t begun to bleed within 24 hours of taking the Misprostol at home, you will need to contact us. We will decide together what our next steps will be.

 

 

Why Do I Need an Ultrasound?

 

An ultrasound is a necessary for determining how far along your pregnancy is. After 11 weeks, you are no longer eligible for the Abortion Pill and will need a Procedural Abortion.

 

An ultrasound is also essential in diagnosing if your have an ectopic pregnancy. This is extremely rare and occurs when the fetus grows outside the uterus. Ectopic pregnancies are very serious health risks and must be terminated.

 

 

What Do I Do if I’m RH Negative?

 

If you are an RH Negative blood type and more than 12 weeks pregnant, you will need to be given an injection called RhoGAM which will prevent you from developing any harmful antibodies.