The Abortion Pill
What is the abortion pill?
The abortion “pill” (medication abortion) is more than just a pill. It is a two-step regimen, approved by the FDA, intended to end an early pregnancy (10 weeks or less from the first day of your last menstrual period).
How does the abortion pill work?
According to the FDA, step one of the regimen is to take the drug mifepristone, commonly
referred to as RU486, or by its brand name, Mifeprex. Mifepristone blocks the body’s naturally
producing hormone, progesterone, which is needed to sustain a pregnancy.
Step two uses the drug misoprostol, also knowns as Cytotec. This drug is usually taken 24-48 hours after taking Mifeprex. Misoprostol can be taken buccally (in the cheek pouch) or vaginally based on your healthcare providers recommendations. Misoprostol softens the cervix and prepares the body to expel the pregnancy. 1,2
The abortion pill (Mifeprex) may be taken in a healthcare provider’s office or clinic, with follow up visits under the health providers’ care. 2 Likewise, you should follow up with your provider seven to 14 days after taking mifepristone to ensure the abortion was not incomplete. 1
Should I have an ultrasound prior to taking the abortion pill?
Yes!
Ultrasound is the most reliable way to determine how far along you are in your pregnancy. Additionally,
ultrasound is the only way to confirm you do not have an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy 5 occurs when a fertilized egg implants and grows outside the main cavity of the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy cannot survive, can be life-threatening, and requires urgent treatment. The abortion pill is not an option if you have an ectopic pregnancy.2 Mifeprex is not effective in terminating an ectopic pregnancy. 1
ThriVe Express offers both free pregnancy testing and ultrasounds. All ultrasounds are performed by
licensed medical professionals. You will be referred to a local hospital if further evaluation is needed.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
What side effects are possible with the abortion pill?
According to the Mayo Clinic, side effects include:
Cramping and vaginal bleeding
Nausea
Weakness
Fever/chills
Vomiting
Headache
Diarrhea
Dizziness
Anxiety 3
It is important that you prepare yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally for these potential side
effects. If you know what to expect by gathering factual information, you can make your best-informed
decision.
Further, you should always be under a doctor’s care when taking the abortion pill. According to a study published by the National Library of Medicine, unsupervised medical abortion can lead to increased maternal morbidity and mortality. 4
Contact your healthcare provider or go to the nearest emergency room if experiencing any side effects or symptoms.
In order for emergency room personnel to properly diagnose and treat you, it is important that you be
upfront and honest about taking the abortion pill.
Where can I get more information?
At ThriVe Express we know you have plans and pregnancy wasn’t one of them. You have the power to
choose, find freedom, and pursue your goals and dreams. We provide real answers to your questions
regarding abortion, adoption, parenting and more so you can leave feeling confident to make the best
decision for YOU.
Our services include lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited obstetrical ultrasound, STI/STD testing and
treatment, and advocacy. All at no charge.
Learn more about the abortion pill and schedule an appointment today to receive ThriVe’s services.
Sources:
1 https://www.earlyoptionpill.com/is-mifeprex-right-for-me/effectiveness-advantages/
2 https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/medical-abortion/about/pac-20394687
3 https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/mifepristone-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20067123
4 Is It Safe to Provide Abortion Pills over the Counter? A Study on Outcome Following Self-Medication
with Abortion Pills – PMC (nih.gov)
5 https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/symptoms-causes/syc-20372088
