We value your privacy and will not share your pregnancy intentions with anyone. We want to assure you that your immigration status is never required and will not be reported—ever. We offer free services that are safe and confidential - where everyone, regardless of status, can receive help without fear.

How Does the Abortion Pill Work? What You Need to Know  

If you’re considering the abortion pill, you may be wondering exactly what happens after you take it. The abortion pill is actually a two-medication process involving mifepristone and misoprostol. Each medication has a different purpose, and knowing how the process works can help you make an informed decision about what comes next.  

What Is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill, also called a medication abortion, typically involves two medications.  

Mifepristone is taken first. It blocks progesterone, a hormone needed to maintain a pregnancy.  

Misoprostol is taken afterward, usually 24 to 48 hours later. It causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.  

The process usually involves bleeding and cramping, which can be heavier than a normal period. Other possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, fever and chills.  

How Far Along Can You Be?

The abortion pill is generally used in early pregnancy. But before taking it, it’s important to know how far along you actually are.  

You may be able to estimate your pregnancy based on the first day of your last menstrual period, but that date isn’t always known or accurate. An ultrasound can provide a more accurate estimate of how far along the pregnancy is.  

At Prestonwood Pregnancy Center, qualifying clients can receive a free limited ultrasound to help determine the approximate age of the pregnancy.  

Why Does an Ultrasound Matter?

An ultrasound can provide information that a pregnancy test cannot.  

It may help determine:  

  • How far along the pregnancy is  
  • Whether the pregnancy is developing  
  • Whether a heartbeat is detectable  
  • Whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus  

This information can help you understand your specific situation before taking abortion medication.  

What Should You Know Before Taking the Abortion Pill?

If you’re considering the abortion pill, don’t feel pressured to make a decision before you have the information you need.  

Consider asking:  

  • How far along am I?  
  • Is the pregnancy developing?  
  • Where is the pregnancy located?  
  • What should I expect from the medication?  
  • What are the possible side effects and complications?  
  • What follow-up care will I need?  
  • What happens if I change my mind?  

Getting answers to these questions can help you make a decision based on your circumstances rather than assumptions or pressure.  

What If I Change My Mind?

If you’ve taken the first medication, mifepristone, and then change your mind about continuing the abortion, there may still be an option.  

Abortion Pill Reversal (APR) uses progesterone after mifepristone. Prestonwood Pregnancy Center provides APR at no cost, and its current information recommends contacting a medical professional as soon as possible because the process is most effective when started early.  

If you’ve taken mifepristone and are having second thoughts, call 972-333-6727 to speak with a nurse.  

Get Information About Your Pregnancy First

An unexpected pregnancy can bring a lot of questions. You don’t have to answer all of them at once.  

Prestonwood Pregnancy Center offers free, confidential pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds and pregnancy guidance to help you understand your pregnancy and your options.  

Need Help?

Before taking the abortion pill, get the information you need about your specific pregnancy.  

Schedule a free, confidential appointment with Prestonwood Pregnancy Center today. 

 

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