A medical abortion is the intentional ending of an early pregnancy using drugs.
Most commonly, this procedure uses two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Sometimes, in rare cases, another drug called methotrexate might be used, or vaginal misoprostol might be taken alone.
How Does a Medical Abortion Work?
A medical abortion procedure begins when a woman takes the first drug, mifepristone. This drug blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for a progressing pregnancy, causing the pregnancy to end.
Then, hours or days later, a woman will take misoprostol, which will trigger the uterus to contract to cause abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding. This will expel the pregnancy and related tissue from her uterus out through her vagina.
What Do I Need to Know About Medical Abortion?
There are a few facts you should know when considering a medical abortion.
1. It’s Only FDA-Approved Through 10 Weeks of Gestation.
If you are beyond ten weeks pregnant, medical abortion is not an option for you due to safety concerns.
2. It’s Not for Every Woman.
Certain health conditions can make medical abortion unsafe. For instance, medical abortion is not an option for those who take blood thinners or have certain bleeding disorders or heart or blood vessel diseases.
3. It Doesn’t Work for Ectopic Pregnancies.
When a fertilized egg attaches outside the uterus, typically in a fallopian tube, it is known as an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancies are non-viable, meaning they are unable to survive or be carried to term. However, they can cause life-threatening bleeding if left untreated.
It’s critical to receive an ultrasound scan during pregnancy to ensure you do not have an ectopic pregnancy. Medical abortion will not be able to treat an ectopic pregnancy and could lead to the condition going undetected and threatening your health.
Protect Your Health and Safety
Visit The Open Door in Breckenridge or Cisco, Texas, to talk in a confidential space about your options and receive free pregnancy testing and an ultrasound.
We can answer your questions and ensure you have the information you need to make an empowered choice. Schedule an appointment today!