Woman looking at abortion pill information online

Abortion Pill Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re researching information on abortion methods, whether it’s for you, a friend, or a loved one, take a deep breath in and let it out slowly.  You’ve found an organization whose main purpose is to work with people in shoes that look a lot like yours.

And can I say, good for you for doing your homework; education is key to empowerment and to making the best decision for yourself.  So, let’s get started. 

Did you know that there are over 6 million women who find themselves pregnant in the US each year, and almost 50% of those are unplanned?  Roughly 2.8 million.  You are not alone.  But, at Little Way, we also understand that you are beautifully unique, and no-one has a situation quite like yours.  So, don’t let anyone treat you like a number.   

Let’s see if we can answer some of your questions about the abortion pill.

What is the Abortion Pill?

The Abortion Pill, also known as RU486, is a medical abortion. Although referred to as an abortion pill singular, it consists of two medicines – Mifepristone and Misoprostol.  These are prescribed by a licensed medical doctor.

How does the Abortion Pill work?

The abortion pill is only administered in pregnancies less than 10 weeks gestation.  Several steps are involved:

  • First, a pill called Mifepristone is taken while at the clinic. This blocks the hormone progesterone that your body naturally produces.  This thins the lining of the uterus and stops the growth of the fetus.

  • One to two days later, the second pill, Misoprostol, is taken.  The doctor or nurse will describe when to take it and how (orally or vaginal insert). This medicine will cause bleeding and severe cramping in order to expel the pregnancy.  It is normal to see large blood clots. These clots can be up to the size of a lemon and include visible parts of the fetus. If there is no bleeding within 24 hours after taking the second pill, a doctor should be called. 

  • A follow-up appointment is advised to confirm that the pregnancy no longer resides in the uterus.  

Are there any side effects to the abortion pill?

Yes, there are side effects to a medical abortion (the abortion pill), some serious, so these should be discussed with a medical professional.

Common Physical Side Effects:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Cramping (at times severe)
  • Heavy Bleeding (up to several weeks)
  • Abdominal Pain

Emotional Side Effects (sometimes lasting a lifetime)

  • Regret
  • Anger
  • Suicidal Thoughts
  • Anxiety
  • Depression

When considering the abortion pill, what should be the first step

  1. We recommend getting a lab-quality pregnancy test that is 99% accurate as early as 7 days after conception.
  2. An ultrasound is extremely important to receive prior to an abortion.  Did you know that 1 in 5 pregnancies end in natural miscarriage?  An ultrasound can help determine if your pregnancy is viable (located in the uterus with a fetal heartbeat). If a miscarriage looks likely, an abortion may not be needed.  An ultrasound can also determine how far along you are, as well as rule out an ectopic pregnancy, which can be life-threatening and would not be fixed by an abortion.  The information received during an ultrasound is key when making your plan.
  3. It is also important to talk with a medical professional about abortion procedures and side effects, as well as other pregnancy options. 

What if I change my mind? 

Regret can be a common symptom of abortion.  For those that change their mind after the first abortion pill, there is a program called Abortion Pill Reversal that has been successful in countering many abortion attempts. This is good information to keep in your back pocket….just in case.

When faced with an unplanned pregnancy, there is often not an easy option, but there is a choice that will fit you best.  Whether you choose abortion, adoption, or parenting it is up to you.  You deserve to take the time necessary to be educated and to be certain.  Our team is knowledgeable and will make sure you get your questions answered.  So, ask away.  You’re worth it.

We understand that life doesn’t always turn out the way you thought it would.  Our team of nurses, sonographers, and client advocates is here to help. 

And the best news is that these key services, pregnancy tests and ultrasounds, are free of charge.

So, go ahead, make an appointment today.  We look forward to hearing from you. 

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