Also called the abortion pill, medical abortion is a two-step medication procedure. There is a series of two powerful drugs taken over a 24 to 48-hour period: mifepristone and misoprostol.

The first drug, mifepristone, blocks the womb from absorbing the hormone progesterone, which thins the uterus and prevents the embryo from implanting or growing. The second drug, misoprostol, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.

Potential risks of medical abortion (the abortion pill):

• The body not releasing all pregnancy tissue in the uterus, also called an incomplete abortion. This may require surgical abortion.
• An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
• Heavy and prolonged bleeding
• Infection
• Fever
• Digestive symptoms such as upset stomach

During a surgical abortion, anesthesia may be given before the procedure. Dilation of the cervix and surgical instruments remove the pregnancy through the vagina. If you are 11 to 13 weeks pregnant, a D & C (dilation and curettage) will likely be done using a vacuum and scraping tool to remove the pregnancy.

If you are further than 13 weeks pregnant, a D & E (dilation and evacuation) will likely be done. Along with a vacuum and scraping tool, surgical tools, including forceps, are used to remove all pregnancy tissue parts.

Potential risks of surgical abortion include:

• Damage to the uterus or cervix
• Uterine perforation
• Excessive bleeding
• Infection of the uterus or fallopian tubes
• Scarring of the inside of the uterus
• Reaction to the medicines or anesthesia, such as problems breathing
• Not removing all of the tissue, requiring another procedure

Start by first understanding your pregnancy details. The FDA only recommends medical abortion for women through 10 weeks of pregnancy. An ultrasound can confirm this detail and also alert you of any potential pregnancy complications. Ultrasounds are a vital step to take to safeguard your health.

Schedule a free and confidential pregnancy test appointment to get started and to be informed about all your pregnancy options, including abortion. We’re here as a safe and non-judgmental space for you to get the facts.

We do not perform or refer for abortions at Alabama Pregnancy and Family Center.