If you’re considering your options for an unexpected pregnancy, you may be thinking about an abortion. 

However, there are often under-represented risks and short-term and long-term side effects to the abortion pill you should know before you make a final pregnancy decision.

What are the Side Effects of the Abortion Pill?

The most common side effects of a medical abortion are uterine cramping and vaginal bleeding, and abdominal cramping. Other common symptoms include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache

What Are the Risks of an Abortion Pill?

According to the Mayo Clinic, potential risks of medical abortion include:

  • Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
  • An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
  • Heavy and prolonged bleeding
  • Infection
  • Fever
  • Digestive system discomfort
  • Septic shock

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is also a potential risk of the abortion pill. This is a condition that affects female reproductive organs. This can be difficult to detect because it is often asymptomatic. This condition can potentially lead to future fertility complications and chronic pain in the pelvic region.

How Do I Know If I’m Eligible for the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill is FDA-approved through 10 weeks (70 days) gestation. If you’re unsure of the pregnancy age, an ultrasound is the best way to confirm the gestational age.

An ultrasound will also confirm the viability of the pregnancy. This is critical to know because up to 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage. Miscarriages require a different treatment than an elective abortion.

We’re Here for You

AscentCare offers no-cost pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and options consultations. During a consultation, you can share concerns, ask questions, and learn more about the pregnancy process.

You can also learn more about pregnancy options if you’re unsure if abortion is the most suitable choice for you. Contact us today to make an appointment!