A medical abortion is a pregnancy termination method that utilizes drugs to end a pregnancy and then expel it from the body.
The two most common drugs used in this procedure are mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, a necessary hormone for the pregnancy to continue. It will end the pregnancy. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract to expel the pregnancy and tissue through abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding.
How Long Does it Take?
A medical abortion may take a few days. Typically, a woman will take mifepristone right away to start a procedure, then misoprostol hours or days later. The prescriber would provide specific instructions based on your unique health situation.
A follow-up appointment should take place about a week later to ensure the abortion is complete.
What Are the Side Effects and Risks?
Women can expect abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding as side effects because this is how the drugs work to expel the pregnancy.
Other side effects may include nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, diarrhea, and headache.
Potential risks include incomplete abortion, an ongoing pregnancy, fever, infection, heavy and prolonged bleeding, and digestive system discomfort.
Is Medical Abortion Legal in Texas?
Abortion is not legal in Texas as of August 25, 2022, except in cases where the woman’s life is at risk. Women cannot be held criminally or civilly liable for seeking or ordering the abortion pill.
Is Mail-Order Abortion the Same as Medical Abortion?
Yes, mail-order abortion and online abortion are both names for medical abortion.
These types of abortion pose more risks if ordered through an illegitimate, unregulated pharmacy (such as one from overseas). They can also be riskier due to a lack of medical supervision. It’s important to ensure you’re able to access emergency care and have follow-up appointments if considering a medical abortion of any kind.
Visit The Open Door for No-Cost Services
While you consider your pregnancy options, visit The Open Door for early pregnancy services, support, and resources.
Some of our pregnancy medical services include pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, STD testing, and more. Schedule your free appointment today!
The Open Door does not provide or refer for abortions.