The Abortion Pill Process Explained

The abortion pill uses two drugs to end an early pregnancy. The first drug, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone, which is needed for the pregnancy to continue. The second medication, misoprostol, is taken 24-48 hours later and causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through cramping and bleeding.

How far along you are, whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus, and your overall health all play a role in determining eligibility. That’s why confirming details with a medical professional is an important first step. Informed Choices can provide this at no cost to you, along with a consultation on your options and answer any questions you may have on the process of an at-home abortion.

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What to Expect

After taking the second medication, most women experience heavy bleeding and strong contractions. This is often more intense than a typical period and may include passing clots and fetal remains. Bleeding can last several days, with lighter bleeding or spotting continuing for a few weeks. 

Other common side effects include:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Fever or chills

• Headache

• Fatigue
  

In some cases, complications can occur, or the abortion is incomplete. Complications can include very heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, infection, fetal remains in the uterus, or other life-threatening conditions. 

It’s important to know what’s normal, what’s not, and when to seek medical care. That’s where we come in.

Your Next Step

Before making any decision, it’s critical to confirm how far along you are and whether the pregnancy is developing in the uterus. An ultrasound can determine gestational age, viability (if there is a heartbeat), and give indications if the pregnancy is ectopic - a serious condition that requires immediate medical treatment and cannot be treated with the abortion pill.

Informed Choices offers no-cost medical consultations and ultrasound verification. You can:

• Receive information about the abortion process, what to expect, and more

• Confirm your pregnancy details and eligibility

• Ask questions in a confidential, pressure-free setting

• Understand potential risks and side effects (what’s normal and what isn’t)

  
  

You deserve clear answers and compassionate care. While we do not provide or refer for termination services, we can give you the answers you need without cost or pressure. Schedule a no-cost appointment today to receive a medical consultation and ultrasound so you can make an informed decision about your next step in Gilroy, CA.

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References:

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. U.S. FDA; 2023.

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Medication Abortion Up to 70 Days of Gestation. Obstet Gynecol. 2020;

Yale Medicine. Medication Abortion: Your Questions Answered. Yale Medicine; 2023. Follow‑up testing and ultrasound (confirm gestational age, rule out ectopic, verify completion)