Chemical abortion is an early pregnancy termination method that uses two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. This procedure is FDA-approved only through 10 weeks of pregnancy for safety reasons.

When considering all your pregnancy options, it’s important to learn how the abortion pill works, the side effects and risks, and what pregnancy information you need to protect your health.

Metro Women’s Center is not a medical facility.  However, we do offer free ultrasound referrals  to help you get key details about your pregnancy.

Visit us for a safe place to talk and gather information on your pregnancy options and resources. We’re here to help you.

How Is a Chemical Abortion Performed?

The first drug, mifepristone, blocks progesterone, a hormone needed to support a pregnancy. About 24 to 48 hours later, misoprostol is taken, inducing the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.

Women will experience abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding after taking misoprostol. This is due to uterine contractions, which happen to expel the pregnancy and related tissue from the body. The timing, pain level, and severity of symptoms vary from person to person.

What Are the Possible Side Effects?

In addition to vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping, common side effects of the abortion pill may include:

  • Upset stomach
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Headache

What Are the Risks?

The risks of chemical abortion include:

  • An incomplete abortion, which requires additional treatment
  • Continued pregnancy if the drugs don’t work
  • Heavy or prolonged bleeding
  • Infection
  • Fever
  • Digestive discomfort

Visit Metro Women’s Center as Your First Step

If you’re pregnant and exploring your options, schedule an appointment. We’d love to hear about your situation so we can learn how to serve you best.

If you receive a positive pregnancy test at your appointment, we can refer you for an ultrasound to safeguard your health and learn whether you have a condition like ectopic pregnancy that needs immediate care.

Contact us today to talk in a safe, supportive environment.