The abortion pill, also known as a chemical abortion, is the most common type of abortion.
Chemical abortions are approved for use up to 10 weeks gestation by the FDA. The Guttmacher Institute, a research organization founded by Planned Parenthood, gathered that 63% of abortions in the United States were chemical abortions.
Given that the use of the abortion pill is so widespread, it’s important to understand how it works. Here are the two drugs used in a chemical abortion and how they work.
Mifepristone
The first pill used in a chemical abortion is mifepristone. Mifepristone works by blocking the hormone progesterone from reaching the developing pregnancy. Progesterone is often referred to as the pregnancy-sustaining hormone due to its role in building the uterine lining, preventing contractions, and preparing the mammary glands for breastfeeding. When the hormone is cut off, the pregnancy is no longer able to sustain itself and the life of the fetus ends.
Note: If you’ve taken the mifepristone pill but have not yet started misoprostol, you may be eligible for abortion pill reversal (APR). Abortion pill reversal simply supplements the hormone progesterone with a chemically identical equivalent, reversing the effects of the mifepristone. You can call the 24/7 hotline at 1-877-558-0333 to quickly access progesterone near you.
Misoprostol
Misoprostol is the second pill used in a chemical abortion. Misoprostol helps thin and dilate the cervix, allowing the pregnancy to be passed, and induces contractions to empty the uterus. You can expect heavy bleeding and cramping while taking misoprostol.
Note: Please don’t attempt a chemical abortion at home without first having an ultrasound. These pills are designed to end a pregnancy located in your uterus, but ectopic pregnancy, or a pregnancy located outside of your uterus, occurs in 1-2 of every 100 pregnancies. Chemical abortion is not a viable treatment for ectopic pregnancy, which is considered a medical emergency. The Pregnancy Network provides free ultrasounds to confirm the location of your pregnancy.
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Whether you have medical questions or need support, we’re here for you. Visit ThePregnancyNetwork.org/appointment to make an appointment at one of our offices today.