The abortion pill, also known as a medication or chemical abortion, includes two pills:
1. Mifepristone (Mifeprex)
2. Misoprostol (Cytotec)
What this process looks like: ➡️ How does the Abortion Pill Work?
This information has been medically reviewed by a registered nurse at The Pregnancy Network.
Symptoms after taking the abortion pill
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) notes that adverse symptoms may be experienced after taking mifepristone, but more commonly occur in the second stage, after taking misoprostol.
These abortion pill side effects are common:
- Cramping (potentially severe)
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Fever or chills
- Vaginal Bleeding
- ACOG notes this will likely be much heavier than your menses.
- Seek advice from your provider in the case of heavy bleeding (more than 2 maxi pads per hour for 2 consecutive hours)
This process may also have effects on your mental and emotional health. Women report feeling alone and unprepared for seeing the developing fetus once it has been expelled.
In the case of an incomplete abortion, additional intervention will be necessary.
Facts to know if you are considering the abortion pill
- Our registered nurses stress the importance of an ultrasound before taking the abortion pill.
- The FDA does not recommend buying the abortion pill online: “The FDA does not have regulatory oversight of prescription medicines from outside the legitimate U.S. drug supply chain; therefore, the FDA cannot ensure the safety, effectiveness, or quality of those medications.” (FDA)
We do not perform or refer for abortions, but you can talk to a nurse about your options and any questions you have about the abortion pill. Make a free appointment for confidential, compassionate care:
In some cases, women have changed their minds after taking the first pill (mifepristone) and want to continue their pregnancy; they can be prescribed progesterone to potentially stop the procedure. Find out more.
Adrienne Bergmeier
Adrienne Bergmeier is a Communications Coordinator at The Pregnancy Network.