If you’re considering using the abortion pill method for your unplanned pregnancy, it’s important to understand just how much bleeding will occur. Knowing how much bleeding is too much is critical because this method is usually performed at home alone. Make sure you know what side effects to expect and the risks before moving forward.

What is a Medical Abortion?

There are two types of abortion: medical and surgical. A medical abortion is also called the abortion pill, a medication abortion, or a chemical abortion. It uses two abortion drugs to end a pregnancy. 

The FDA regulates the first drug, mifepristone, which only certified providers can prescribe. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone from reaching the pregnancy, which cannot survive without this vital hormone.

The second drug, misoprostol, causes contractions and bleeding to remove the pregnancy and tissue from the body. The FDA approves using this method through 10 weeks of pregnancy only. 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Medical Abortion?

According to the Mayo Clinic, the following are the possible side effects:

  • The body does not release all pregnancy tissue in the uterus. This is also called an incomplete abortion, which may require surgical abortion.
  • An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
  • Heavy and prolonged bleeding.
  • Infection
  • Fever
  • Digestive symptoms, like an upset stomach

In addition, you might also experience vomiting, chills, diarrhea, and a headache.

When Should I Be Concerned?

You’re advised to call a healthcare professional immediately if you have the following symptoms:

  • Heavy bleeding – soaking two or more pads an hour for two hours in a row. 
  • Bad pain in the stomach area or pelvis.
  • Chills or body aches.
  • Fast heart rate.
  • Fever that lasts more than four hours or that starts in the days after you take misoprostol.
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge.

How Can BsideU for Life Help Me?

Schedule a free appointment with BsideU for Life to get all the information you need to protect your health. There is so much more to know about the abortion pill regimen. You should learn about the possible physical and emotional risks before taking the drugs. 

Although we do not perform or refer for abortion, we can discuss why the FDA does not recommend buying the drugs online and some of the reasons the Mayo Clinic says you may not be eligible to take the drugs.

We are ready to empower you with the knowledge you need to make a confident decision. Schedule a free appointment online, text us at 502-309-4951, or call 502-589-9400. We’re beside you every step of the way.

All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.