What Is the Abortion Pill?

If you're facing an unexpected pregnancy in Ohio you may be researching your options and wondering whether the abortion pill is right for you. Before making a decision, it's important to understand how the abortion pill works, the potential side effects, and the role an ultrasound can play in protecting your health.

At Mya Women’s Center in Ashtabula, Ohio, we believe every woman deserves accurate medical information so she can make an informed decision about her pregnancy.

What Is the Abortion Pill?

The term "abortion pill" refers to a medication abortion, which uses two drugs to end an existing pregnancy. Medication abortion is typically used during the early weeks of pregnancy.¹

• The process generally involves:
• Taking the first medication, mifepristone, which blocks the hormone progesterone needed to sustain a pregnancy.
• Taking the second medication, misoprostol, which causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue.¹



The abortion pill is different from emergency contraception, such as Plan B. Emergency contraception is intended to prevent pregnancy before it occurs, while the abortion pill is used after a pregnancy has already been established.

How Does the Abortion Pill Work?

The abortion pill process usually takes place over one to several days.¹

Step 1: Mifepristone

Mifepristone works by blocking progesterone, a hormone necessary for pregnancy to continue. Without progesterone, the lining of the uterus begins to break down, and the pregnancy can no longer develop.¹

Step 2: Misoprostol

Misoprostol is typically taken 24 to 48 hours later. This medication causes cramping and bleeding as the uterus empties its contents.¹

The experience can vary from person to person. Some women experience symptoms similar to a heavy menstrual period, while others experience more intense cramping and bleeding.



The abortion process may take several hours or several days to complete.

What Are the Side Effects of the Abortion Pill?

Like any medication, the abortion pill can cause side effects. Common side effects may include:¹



• Cramping
• Vaginal bleeding
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Fever or chills
• Headache

Bleeding and cramping are expected during the process, but they can sometimes be heavier than anticipated.

You should seek medical attention immediately if you experience:²

• Excessive bleeding
• Severe abdominal pain
• High fever
• Foul-smelling discharge
• Symptoms that worsen instead of improve

Every woman's health situation is different, which is one reason why a medical evaluation before making a decision can be important.

What Should I Know Before Ordering Abortion Pills Online?

Some women consider ordering abortion pills online because they believe it may be more convenient or private. However, there are important factors to consider before doing so.

Confirm the Pregnancy

A positive pregnancy test confirms the presence of pregnancy hormones, but it does not provide important medical information such as:²

• How far along you are
• Whether the pregnancy is developing normally
• Whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus

Rule Out an Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube.³

An ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency and cannot be treated with the abortion pill. If left undiagnosed, it can become life-threatening.³

Understand Your Options

Before making any pregnancy decision, it is helpful to gather accurate medical information and understand all of your options. Taking time to learn about your pregnancy can help you make a confident and informed choice.

What Is an Ultrasound and Why Do I Need One Before an Abortion?

An ultrasound is a medical imaging procedure that uses sound waves to create pictures of the pregnancy.²

An ultrasound can provide important information about your pregnancy, including:

Confirming Viability

Not every positive pregnancy test results in a viable pregnancy. An ultrasound can help determine whether the pregnancy is developing and whether a heartbeat is present.²

Determining Gestational Age

Knowing how far along you are is important because medication abortion is generally used during the early weeks of pregnancy.¹

Identifying the Location of the Pregnancy



An ultrasound can determine whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus and help identify an ectopic pregnancy that may require emergency medical treatment.³

Providing Important Medical Information

The information obtained during an ultrasound can help you better understand your pregnancy and discuss your options with a healthcare provider.

Free Pregnancy Services in Ashtabula, Ohio

If you have a positive pregnancy test and are considering your options, Mya Women’s Center in Ashtabula, Ohio is here to help.

We provide free and confidential services designed to help you better understand your pregnancy and make an informed decision. Our caring team can answer your questions, discuss your options, and provide information about available resources.

Whether you're looking for pregnancy testing, information about the abortion pill, or support as you navigate an unexpected pregnancy, we're here for you.

Contact Mya Women’s Center in Ashtabula, Ohio today to learn more about our free and confidential services.

References

Mayo Clinic. "Medical Abortion."

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). "Ultrasound Exams."

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). "Ectopic Pregnancy FAQ."

Mayo Clinic. "Medical Abortion."

Cleveland Clinic. "Medication Abortion."