How to take abortion pills?

 


Before reading this article regarding abortion pills, please remember that abortion pills must only be taken under supervision and instruction by your doctor. It is not only illegal but also very harmful to self-administer these.

You must take abortion pills orally or vaginally during a medical abortion. Unlike a surgical abortion, there is no need for anesthesia or surgery. It works by combining two pills that, when taken together, cause an abortion.1

How does the abortion pill work?

First of all, since these pills require a prescription, you must visit a doctor to get them. Secondly, because of their side effects, it is generally recommended that no one take these medicines without a prescription, as they might have severe consequences if you take them incorrectly.

A gynaecologist will initially evaluate the progression of pregnancy by performing the required tests and scans. If a woman is pregnant but does not want to proceed with the pregnancy, the doctor will evaluate all the options depending on the progression of the pregnancy; and will also consider the patient’s medical history, among other things. If the pregnancy is early enough and there are no risks to the procedure, a doctor may recommend a medical abortion.

During a medical abortion, two pills are given, one after the other, to induce a miscarriage and terminate the pregnancy. The first pill is known as Mifepristone. A hormone called progesterone is necessary for normal pregnancy growth. Mifepristone blocks the body’s natural ability to produce progesterone, thereby inhibiting the growth of the pregnancy.

Then, based on the doctor’s instructions, you take the second pill, Misoprostol, either immediately or up to 48 hours later. This pill induces cramping and bleeding to empty your uterus. It feels like you’re having an extremely heavy, crampy period, and the procedure feels similar to an early miscarriage. If you don’t experience any bleeding within 24 hours of taking the second set of abortion pills, contact your nurse or doctor. Your doctor or nurse will give you the following instructions regarding abortion pills: when to take these pills, where to take them, and how to take them. Additionally, doctors may recommend antibiotics to prevent infections.2

How to prepare before taking the abortion pills?

You will need to see your doctor for an evaluation and exam. This usually includes:

  • A physical examination to confirm your pregnancy
  • An ultrasound is performed to view the pregnancy in the uterus.
  • To determine the length of the pregnancy and ensure that it is not an ectopic pregnancy.
  • Blood and urine tests are performed.
  • The doctor will explain the procedure, its risks and side effects.

You will have bleeding and cramps afterwards, so prepare to stay at home or in a comfortable location for a few days. Buy some absorbent pads to contain the bleeding, ibuprofen or acetaminophen to relieve pain and a heating pad for cramps.

What are the side effects of abortion pills?

The most severe side effects of abortion pills begin shortly after taking the second pill.

You should expect the following symptoms after taking both pills:

  • Bleeding and cramping begin one to four hours after taking the second dose.
  • You might experience heavy bleeding with blood clots for several hours after taking the pill.
  • Pain and cramps for several hours.
  • You may get a mild fever or chills after taking the second pill, which will last around a day. Others report feeling exhausted, nauseous, and dizzy after taking abortion pills, and some women even experience stomach pain.

What are the risks of taking abortion pills?

Before taking abortion pills, you should ensure that you are willing to complete all prescribed doses. Skipping a medication or failing to follow instructions can cause serious health consequences.

Medical abortion has the following risks:

  • Incomplete abortion
  • Heavy bleeding that won’t stop
  • Infection.
  • Fever.
  • Diarrhea and digestive pain
  • Allergic reaction to the medications

Who should not take abortion pills?

Medical abortion is not a risk-free procedure for those who:

  • You’re way too far along in your pregnancy.
  • You have a pregnancy that occurs outside the uterus (ectopic pregnancy).
  • You have a blood clotting disease or significant anaemia.
  • You have chronic adrenal insufficiency.
  • If you use a long-term corticosteroid.
  • If you have an intrauterine device (IUD).
  • You have an allergy to the medications being used.
  • You have no access to emergency care.
  • You can’t return for a follow-up visit.

It is necessary to discuss your medical history with your doctor before undergoing a medical abortion procedure.3

Post Abortion Care:

After your abortion, your doctor will provide you with special aftercare instructions. Doctors may advise you to take the following things after the abortion is completed:

  • Stay hydrated, especially if you’re vomiting or have diarrhoea.
  • Heating pads may be helpful in relieving cramps.
  • Some women may have emotional changes due to the dramatic hormonal shift. Hence, having a support system at such times is helpful.
  • If possible, plan to stay indoors for a day or two to relax and heal in the comfort of your own home.
  • Take ibuprofen pain pills to relieve cramps and pain.
  • When you have cramps, massage your abdomen.
  • Wear a bra that fits tightly to decrease breast soreness.4

How long will it take to recover after taking the abortion pills?

It takes some time to recover after a medical abortion. In some cases, it might only take a day or two for you to resume your regular activities. Avoid doing anything that causes you pain. You will most likely experience many feelings, like relief, sadness, stress, and guilt. These emotions are common and expected.

How long will you bleed after taking the abortion pills?

The amount of bleeding to expect depends on the individual and how far along you are in your pregnancy. It’s normal to expect heavy bleeding for one to two days. Over the next two to three weeks, the bleeding will gradually subside. Your doctor can advise using sanitary pads until the bleeding stops. This makes it easier to see the volume of blood and clots. Tampon use raises your risk of infection during this time.5

After having a medical abortion, most doctors will advise you to use protection while having sex because you are extremely fertile after the procedure, and the risk of another pregnancy is relatively high.6

The choice to have a medical abortion is highly personal. Your doctor may walk you through the procedure and ensure you understand what to expect before and after it. Don’t worry; your doctor will be there to ensure you are comfortable and getting the treatment you need

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