The Abortion Pill: What You Need to Know
Facing an unexpected pregnancy can be challenging. If you have questions, we want to provide the answers.
If you’re considering your options—including abortion—there are facts about the abortion pill (AKA medical abortion) that are important to know as you are making a plan.
The Abortion Pill: What It Is and How It Works
The abortion pill is actually two medications prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional. Its purpose is to end an early pregnancy and is approved by the FDA to be used between conception and week 10.[1]
Mifepristone: This first drug is usually taken at an abortion clinic. It blocks the hormone progesterone, which stops the pregnancy from continuing to develop, and stops the body’s ability to support a pregnancy.[1]
Misoprostol: This second drug is usually taken at home 24 to 48 hours later. It causes the uterus to cramp and bleed to expel the pregnancy.[1]
Bleeding and cramping typically start 2 to 24 hours after taking misoprostol,[2] and the pregnancy is most often expelled within that time.[3]
Services Needed Prior to Making Your Abortion Plan
There are several key pieces of information you need before considering a medical abortion.
Ultrasound
Ultrasounds provide accurate gestational dating and pregnancy viability.
Why do I need to know my gestational age? The pill is only FDA approved for use up to 10 weeks gestation. An ultrasound is the most accurate way to date a pregnancy.
Why does pregnancy viability matter? Not all pregnancies are viable. In fact, 1 in 4 pregnancies will end on their own.[4] If you are experiencing an early miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy (which can be a medical emergency) you will not need an abortion, but you will need a different course of treatment.[1]
STI Testing/Treatment
If you are considering an abortion, it is important to get STI testing and treatment if needed.
If the abortion pill results in an incomplete abortion, a surgical abortion would be needed to complete the procedure. It is vital to clear up any existing infections that could be introduced into the uterus during the procedure. These infections could impact your health and future fertility.[5]
Abortion and Options Consultation
Understanding all available options helps ensure you make the best decision for your unique circumstances. Whether considering abortion, adoption, or parenting, having complete information about each path allows for confident decision-making.
Little Way offers a safe, confidential place for you to ask questions and talk about concerns, while gaining knowledge about your options. We have free ultrasounds, STI testing/treatment, and abortion consultations to give you all the information you need before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
The abortion pill should be prescribed by a qualified abortion provider and dispensed by an FDA approved pharmacy.[1]
Currently, abortion is illegal in Kentucky, with exceptions for life endangerment to the mother.[6] Before heading across state lines, Little Way is a great first step to find out key information about your pregnancy and health as well as abortion procedures and risks.
There are several common side effects associated with the abortion pill. They include[2]:
- Moderate to heavy bleeding and cramping
- Nausea and vomiting
- Emotional Distress - In a medical abortion, the fetus is expelled. Viewing this can be traumatic for some women.
While these are common side-effects, there are also serious health risks to consider.
Abortion is a major medical procedure, and every medical procedure comes with risks and possible complications. Common risks and possible complications include[1]:
- Incomplete abortion
- Failed abortion
- Hemorrhaging (very heavy bleeding)
- Serious infection
- Allergic reaction
- Emotional distress including anxiety, depression, withdrawal, harmful thoughts, and regret
A study by the Ethics and Public Policy Center found that 1 in 10 women experience a serious adverse or life-threatening event up to 45 days after a medical abortion—including sepsis, infection, hemorrhaging, and hospitalization.[7]
If you or someone you know experiences any of the following symptoms after taking the abortion pill, please seek immediate medical attention:
- Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
- Bleeding that soaks through more than two heavy-protection pads in an hour for two or more hours
- Severe pain in your abdomen or pelvis
- Vaginal discharge with a foul odor
- Signs of an allergic reaction (rash, hives, wheezing, swelling, etc.)
- Vomiting or nausea that does not go away
Currently, abortion is illegal in Kentucky. However, exceptions can be made in the case of life endangerment to the pregnant woman.[6]
Before you head across state lines, Little Way is a great first step to find out key information about your pregnancy and health as well as abortion procedures and risks.
Abortion clinics charge between $150 and $1,100 for a medical abortion.[8] Prices vary based on:
- Clinic location
- Individual healthcare provider pricing
- Health insurance coverage
- Required follow-up appointments and care
- Additional medications or services needed
If you're considering traveling out of state for medical abortion services, you’ll also need to consider the cost of:
- Transportation expenses (gas, flights, or other travel costs)
- Lodging and meal expenses during travel
- Time off work for the procedure and recovery
- Follow-up care if complications arise or the medical abortion is incomplete
Little Way offers many services at no cost to you, which makes us a great first step no matter which direction you’re headed.
If you think you can’t afford a medical abortion, take a deep breath. Little Way is a great place to start.
We offer free pregnancy support, ultrasounds, and information about community assistance programs to help you make the best decision for your future.
Yes. There are several key pieces of information you need before considering a medical abortion.
Have an Ultrasound
Ultrasounds provide accurate gestational dating and pregnancy viability.
- Why do I need to know my gestational age? The pill is only FDA approved for use up to 10 weeks gestation. An ultrasound is the most accurate way to date a pregnancy.
- Why does pregnancy viability matter? Not all pregnancies are viable. In fact, 1 in 4 pregnancies will end on their own.[4] If you are experiencing an early miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy (which can be a medical emergency) you will not need an abortion, but you will need a different course of treatment.[1]
Get Tested and Treated for STIs
If you are considering an abortion, it is important to get STI testing and treatment if needed. If the abortion pill results in an incomplete abortion, a surgical abortion is required to complete the procedure. It’s vital to clear up any existing infections that could be introduced into the uterus during the procedure. These infections could impact your health and future fertility.[5]
Carefully Consider All Your Options
Understanding every available option helps ensure you make the best decision for your unique circumstances. Whether considering medical or surgical abortion, adoption, or parenting, having complete information about each path allows for confident decision-making.
Little Way offers a safe place for you to talk about what is on your mind, while educating you on your options. We have free ultrasounds and STI testing/treatment to give you all the information you need before making a decision.
Often women do change their mind after taking the first pill.
If you have a change of heart, there is a reversal protocol available. Be aware that timing is important. The sooner you can begin the reversal, the better. Visit AbortionPillReversal.com for 24/7 support.
You can also contact Little Way at (502) 583-2151.
Frequently Asked Questions
Medical Abortion Information and More in Louisville, KY
Little Way offers comprehensive pregnancy support services at no cost, including:
- Free pregnancy testing and ultrasounds
- Pregnancy options education
- STI testing & treatment
- Ongoing support and resources
- Referrals to community assistance programs
Give us a call at (502) 369-0904 or schedule your appointment today.
Little Way does not offer ongoing prenatal care, perform or refer for abortions, nor place for adoptions.
Sources
- FDA. (2025, February 11). Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation?sm_guid=NTU1NzgyfDYzMDE1OTM2fC0xfGppbUBha2ZhbWlseS5vcmd8NTY4OTI4MXx8MHwwfDE5OTYwMDk4OHwxMDg2fDB8MHx8NTQ3NzI2fDA1
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2024, November 15). Mifepristone (Mifeprex). MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a600042.html
- Mayo Clinic. (2025, February 1). Mifepristone (oral route). https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/mifepristone-oral-route/description/drg-20067123
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2024, October 15). Miscarriage. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001488.htm
- Carlsson, I., Breding, K., & Larsson, P.-G. (2018, September 25). Complications related to induced abortion: a combined retrospective and longitudinal follow-up study. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6156848/
- Commonwealth of Kentucky Office of the Attorney General. (2022, June 24). Human Life Protection Act. Attorney General Daniel Cameron. https://www.ag.ky.gov/Press%20Release%20Attachments/Human%20Life%20Protection%20Act%20Advisory.pdf
- Ethics & Public Policy Center. (2025, April 28). Insurance Data Reveals One in Ten Patients Experiences a Serious Adverse Event. https://eppc.org/publication/insurance-data-reveals-one-in-ten-patients-experiences-a-serious-adverse-event/
- As advertised by abortion providers.
Facing an unexpected pregnancy can be challenging. If you have questions, we want to provide the answers.
If you’re considering your options—including abortion—there are facts about the abortion pill (AKA medical abortion) that are important to know as you are making a plan.
The Abortion Pill: What It Is and How It Works
The abortion pill is actually two medications prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional. Its purpose is to end an early pregnancy and is approved by the FDA to be used between conception and week 10.[1]
Mifepristone: This first drug is usually taken at an abortion clinic. It blocks the hormone progesterone, which stops the pregnancy from continuing to develop, and stops the body’s ability to support a pregnancy.[1]
Misoprostol: This second drug is usually taken at home 24 to 48 hours later. It causes the uterus to cramp and bleed to expel the pregnancy.[1]
Bleeding and cramping typically start 2 to 24 hours after taking misoprostol,[2] and the pregnancy is most often expelled within that time.[3]
Services Needed Prior to Making Your Abortion Plan
There are several key pieces of information you need before considering a medical abortion.
Ultrasound
Ultrasounds provide accurate gestational dating and pregnancy viability.
Why do I need to know my gestational age? The pill is only FDA approved for use up to 10 weeks gestation. An ultrasound is the most accurate way to date a pregnancy.
Why does pregnancy viability matter? Not all pregnancies are viable. In fact, 1 in 4 pregnancies will end on their own.[4] If you are experiencing an early miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy (which can be a medical emergency) you will not need an abortion, but you will need a different course of treatment.[1]
STI Testing/Treatment
If you are considering an abortion, it is important to get STI testing and treatment if needed.
If the abortion pill results in an incomplete abortion, a surgical abortion would be needed to complete the procedure. It is vital to clear up any existing infections that could be introduced into the uterus during the procedure. These infections could impact your health and future fertility.[5]
Abortion and Options Consultation
Understanding all available options helps ensure you make the best decision for your unique circumstances. Whether considering abortion, adoption, or parenting, having complete information about each path allows for confident decision-making.
Little Way offers a safe, confidential place for you to ask questions and talk about concerns, while gaining knowledge about your options. We have free ultrasounds, STI testing/treatment, and abortion consultations to give you all the information you need before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
The abortion pill should be prescribed by a qualified abortion provider and dispensed by an FDA approved pharmacy.[1]
Currently, abortion is illegal in Kentucky, with exceptions for life endangerment to the mother.[6] Before heading across state lines, Little Way is a great first step to find out key information about your pregnancy and health as well as abortion procedures and risks.
There are several common side effects associated with the abortion pill. They include[2]:
- Moderate to heavy bleeding and cramping
- Nausea and vomiting
- Emotional Distress - In a medical abortion, the fetus is expelled. Viewing this can be traumatic for some women.
While these are common side-effects, there are also serious health risks to consider.
Abortion is a major medical procedure, and every medical procedure comes with risks and possible complications. Common risks and possible complications include[1]:
- Incomplete abortion
- Failed abortion
- Hemorrhaging (very heavy bleeding)
- Serious infection
- Allergic reaction
- Emotional distress including anxiety, depression, withdrawal, harmful thoughts, and regret
A study by the Ethics and Public Policy Center found that 1 in 10 women experience a serious adverse or life-threatening event up to 45 days after a medical abortion—including sepsis, infection, hemorrhaging, and hospitalization.[7]
If you or someone you know experiences any of the following symptoms after taking the abortion pill, please seek immediate medical attention:
- Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
- Bleeding that soaks through more than two heavy-protection pads in an hour for two or more hours
- Severe pain in your abdomen or pelvis
- Vaginal discharge with a foul odor
- Signs of an allergic reaction (rash, hives, wheezing, swelling, etc.)
- Vomiting or nausea that does not go away
Currently, abortion is illegal in Kentucky. However, exceptions can be made in the case of life endangerment to the pregnant woman.[6]
Before you head across state lines, Little Way is a great first step to find out key information about your pregnancy and health as well as abortion procedures and risks.
Abortion clinics charge between $150 and $1,100 for a medical abortion.[8] Prices vary based on:
- Clinic location
- Individual healthcare provider pricing
- Health insurance coverage
- Required follow-up appointments and care
- Additional medications or services needed
If you're considering traveling out of state for medical abortion services, you’ll also need to consider the cost of:
- Transportation expenses (gas, flights, or other travel costs)
- Lodging and meal expenses during travel
- Time off work for the procedure and recovery
- Follow-up care if complications arise or the medical abortion is incomplete
Little Way offers many services at no cost to you, which makes us a great first step no matter which direction you’re headed.
If you think you can’t afford a medical abortion, take a deep breath. Little Way is a great place to start.
We offer free pregnancy support, ultrasounds, and information about community assistance programs to help you make the best decision for your future.
Yes. There are several key pieces of information you need before considering a medical abortion.
Have an Ultrasound
Ultrasounds provide accurate gestational dating and pregnancy viability.
- Why do I need to know my gestational age? The pill is only FDA approved for use up to 10 weeks gestation. An ultrasound is the most accurate way to date a pregnancy.
- Why does pregnancy viability matter? Not all pregnancies are viable. In fact, 1 in 4 pregnancies will end on their own.[4] If you are experiencing an early miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy (which can be a medical emergency) you will not need an abortion, but you will need a different course of treatment.[1]
Get Tested and Treated for STIs
If you are considering an abortion, it is important to get STI testing and treatment if needed. If the abortion pill results in an incomplete abortion, a surgical abortion is required to complete the procedure. It’s vital to clear up any existing infections that could be introduced into the uterus during the procedure. These infections could impact your health and future fertility.[5]
Carefully Consider All Your Options
Understanding every available option helps ensure you make the best decision for your unique circumstances. Whether considering medical or surgical abortion, adoption, or parenting, having complete information about each path allows for confident decision-making.
Little Way offers a safe place for you to talk about what is on your mind, while educating you on your options. We have free ultrasounds and STI testing/treatment to give you all the information you need before making a decision.
Often women do change their mind after taking the first pill.
If you have a change of heart, there is a reversal protocol available. Be aware that timing is important. The sooner you can begin the reversal, the better. Visit AbortionPillReversal.com for 24/7 support.
You can also contact Little Way at (502) 583-2151.
Frequently Asked Questions
Medical Abortion Information and More in Louisville, KY
Little Way offers comprehensive pregnancy support services at no cost, including:
- Free pregnancy testing and ultrasounds
- Pregnancy options education
- STI testing & treatment
- Ongoing support and resources
- Referrals to community assistance programs
Give us a call at (502) 369-0904 or schedule your appointment today.
Little Way does not offer ongoing prenatal care, perform or refer for abortions, nor place for adoptions.
Sources
- FDA. (2025, February 11). Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation?sm_guid=NTU1NzgyfDYzMDE1OTM2fC0xfGppbUBha2ZhbWlseS5vcmd8NTY4OTI4MXx8MHwwfDE5OTYwMDk4OHwxMDg2fDB8MHx8NTQ3NzI2fDA1
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2024, November 15). Mifepristone (Mifeprex). MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a600042.html
- Mayo Clinic. (2025, February 1). Mifepristone (oral route). https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/mifepristone-oral-route/description/drg-20067123
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2024, October 15). Miscarriage. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001488.htm
- Carlsson, I., Breding, K., & Larsson, P.-G. (2018, September 25). Complications related to induced abortion: a combined retrospective and longitudinal follow-up study. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6156848/
- Commonwealth of Kentucky Office of the Attorney General. (2022, June 24). Human Life Protection Act. Attorney General Daniel Cameron. https://www.ag.ky.gov/Press%20Release%20Attachments/Human%20Life%20Protection%20Act%20Advisory.pdf
- Ethics & Public Policy Center. (2025, April 28). Insurance Data Reveals One in Ten Patients Experiences a Serious Adverse Event. https://eppc.org/publication/insurance-data-reveals-one-in-ten-patients-experiences-a-serious-adverse-event/
- As advertised by abortion providers.