What Are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?

If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and considering abortion, it’s important to give yourself time to make the choice that’s right for you. From deciding between abortion, parenting, and adoption, to learning about the abortion options available to you, it’s a lot of information to take in during an already stressful time.

Options Medical Clinic is here to help you sift through the facts, explore the pros and cons of each option, and make the choice that feels right for you!

When it comes to deciding what type of abortion is right for you, it’s crucial to take time to understand the side effects you might face and determine if you’re at risk for any long-term health consequences related to the abortion pill.

Are there side effects related to the abortion pill?

There are side effects every woman can expect when taking the abortion pill. The main side effects include intense bleeding and cramping as the pregnancy is ended and the body contracts to force the pregnancy tissue from the womb. Women may also experience nausea, weakness, fever and chills, vomiting, headaches, diarrhea, and dizziness.

Are there long-term risks related to the abortion pill?

In addition to understanding the side effects you might encounter when taking the abortion pill, it’s also important to consider the long-term risks sometimes caused by the procedure.

The abortion pill can cause complications related to pre-existing conditions, such as ectopic pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections, or issues with the medical procedure itself, such as incomplete abortions, retained fetal tissue, or emotional trauma.

The main risks related to the abortion pill include:

• Infection and sepsis

• Hemorrhaging and prolonged bleeding

• Increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (related to chlamydia infection)1

• Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety 2

Who should avoid the abortion pill?

According to The Mayo Clinic, the abortion pill should be avoided entirely if you…

• Have a pregnancy further along than nine weeks

• Have an intrauterine device (IUD)

• Have been diagnosed with an ectopic pregnancy

• Have been diagnosed with a bleeding disorder, heart or blood vessel disease, seizure disorders, or liver, kidney, or lung disease

• Use blood thinners or certain steroid medications

• Do not have access to emergency care in case of complications

• Have an allergy to the medications used in this procedure

Am I at risk for complications from the abortion pill?

Before you schedule your appointment for an abortion, it’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure your health and safety along the way. We recommend scheduling an appointment at your local pregnancy clinic to learn more about your unique pregnancy and any potential risk for abortion pill complications.

Getting an ultrasound is the best way to determine if you’re at risk for long-term health consequences related to the abortion pill. Your ultrasound will give you information regarding the gestational age, location, and viability of your pregnancy, which will determine if you’re eligible for the abortion pill and whether or not you have an ectopic pregnancy or other dangerous health conditions.

In addition to your free ultrasound, we recommend getting tested for STIs, as certain infections can cause abortion complications.

Schedule an appointment with Options Medical Clinic today for free pregnancy testing, an ultrasound, referrals for STI testing, and more!