Is the Abortion Pill Safe? What Women Should Know Before Taking It
If you’re considering the abortion pill, you may be wondering: Is it safe? Like any medication, the abortion pill has potential side effects and risks. Understanding those risks—and knowing more about your specific pregnancy—can help you make an informed decision.
What Are the Common Side Effects?
The abortion pill involves two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol. Because misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy, cramping and bleeding are expected.
Other possible side effects include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fever or chills
- Fatigue
Your experience may be different from someone else’s, so it’s important to know what to expect before taking the medication.
What Are the Possible Risks?
While serious complications are uncommon, they can happen. Potential complications include heavy bleeding, infection or an incomplete abortion.
An ectopic pregnancy is another important concern. This occurs when a pregnancy develops outside the uterus, most often in a fallopian tube. An ectopic pregnancy can become life-threatening and requires medical treatment.
Because an abortion pill does not treat an ectopic pregnancy, knowing where the pregnancy is located is important before taking the medication.
Why Get an Ultrasound First?
A pregnancy test can tell you that you’re pregnant, but it doesn’t tell you everything about the pregnancy.
An ultrasound may help determine:
- How far along you are
- Whether the pregnancy is developing
- Whether a heartbeat is detectable
- Whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus
At Prestonwood Pregnancy Center, qualifying clients can receive a free limited ultrasound to help provide this information.
What If You’re Still Unsure?
If you’re considering the abortion pill but aren’t sure what to do, you don’t have to make a decision without information.
Getting answers about your specific pregnancy can help you understand your situation and your options.
Prestonwood Pregnancy Center offers free, confidential pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds and pregnancy guidance at DFW-area locations.
Need Help?
Get the information you need before making a decision.
Schedule a free, confidential appointment with Prestonwood Pregnancy Center today.
