The abortion pill refers to a drug given to end a pregnancy that is less than 49 days old. The most commonly used drug is mifepristone (Mifeprex), also known as RU486. Mifepristone can be used alone or in combination with misoprostol (Cytotec). Like all medical procedures, there can be risks. Having all the necessary information about the process can help keep you safe.
How it Works
According to the Feminist Women's Health Center, mifepristone works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is needed to sustain a pregnancy. Once the hormone is cut off, the uterine lining begins to shed, the cervix softens and some bleeding might occur. Within 24 to 72 hours, a woman will take the second medication, misoprostol. This medication will cause the uterus to contract, and the pregnancy will be expelled, usually within four to six hours.
What to Expect
Before being prescribed the medication, the doctor will examine you to ensure that the pregnancy is less than eight weeks along. You will speak with a counselor, who will explain the procedure and answer any questions. Once a medical history is obtained, you will be sent home with your prescriptions and instructions. Some bleeding is natural after the mifepristone is taken. Bleeding and clotting can start as soon as 20 minutes after taking the misoprostol, so plan to be someplace where you'll be comfortable.
Follow Up
A follow-up appointment will usually be scheduled for approximately two weeks later. The doctor will check to make sure that the pregnancy has been terminated. The Feminist Women's Health center reports that the procedure fails to work in 5 percent of cases. If the procedure fails, a vacuum aspiration abortion will need to be performed to end the pregnancy.
Side Effects
According to the Mayo Clinic, the side effects of mifepristone can be excessively heavy vaginal bleeding or unusual fatigue or weakness. The side effects of misoprostol include diarrhea and abdominal pain. If you experience convulsions, severe abdominal pain, fever tremor or trouble breathing, contact medical help immediately. These might be signs of an overdose.
Risks
The National Institute of Health explains that the main risk of the abortion pill is excessive bleeding, and you should call your health care provider immediately if bleeding becomes severe (soaking through more than two pads within an hour) or seems to last longer than expected. There is also a risk of sepsis, a type of severe systemic infection. If you notice a fever higher than 100.7, severe stomach pain, tenderness, weakness, chills, diarrhea or an abnormally fast heartbeat, call your physician immediately, as these might be signs of sepsis.
Sepsis
There is some controversy surrounding sepsis and the abortion pill. The Reproductive Health Technologies Project reports that although there are many claims that the abortion pill has a higher incidence of septic infections and death, there has been no conclusive proof of the claims. It is important to be vigilant for infection after undergoing any medical procedure and to consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.
