If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy and considering the abortion pill, you may be curious how an abortion might impact your health. 

While the physical effects of the abortion pill may be what first comes to mind, it is vital to recognize that the abortion pill can also impact your mental and emotional health. 

Continue reading to learn more about the side effects and complications of the abortion pill so that you can make an informed decision that is best for your health and future. 

What is the Abortion Pill? 

The abortion pill is a common term used to refer to a medical abortion. A medical abortion uses two drugs, mifepristone, and misoprostol, and according to the FDA, this method of termination is only advised within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. 

Mifepristone is administered first and blocks the hormone progesterone, which causes the uterine lining to thin and the pregnancy to detach. Then one to two days later, misoprostol is administered, which creates uterine contractions and leads to the expulsion of the pregnancy through the vagina. 

Physical Effects and Complications of the Abortion Pill

After taking misoprostol, bleeding and cramping are expected as the body expels the pregnancy. You may also experience common symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea.

Bleeding is often heavier the first one to two days following the administration of misoprostol and becomes less over the next two to three weeks. 

If you experience any of the following, you may be experiencing a complication and should reach out to your healthcare provider immediately: 

  • Soaking through two pads within an hour
  • No bleeding 24 hours after taking misoprostol
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
  • Fever lasting more than 24 hours
  • Severe back or abdominal pain
  • No return of your period after two months
  • You experience pregnancy symptoms

Mental Health Effects of the Abortion Pill

Maybe you don’t consider yourself someone who struggles with your mental health and feel that using an abortion pill to terminate your pregnancy won’t affect you.  

In reality, it is difficult to predict how any abortion will impact a given individual’s mental and emotional health. According to the National Library of Medicine, women who have an abortion are at increased risk of developing the following mental health issues: 

  • Depression disorders 
  • Eating disorders 
  • Anxiety 
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Suicidal behaviors 
  • Substance abuse 

Get Help Today

Navigating your options when facing an unplanned pregnancy can be incredibly overwhelming. The good news is you don’t have to walk this path alone. Salem Pregnancy Care Center is here to help. 

We offer free lab-quality pregnancy tests and limited obstetric ultrasound scans. After learning more about your pregnancy, our trusted staff can answer your questions and discuss your options. 

Contact us today for your confidential appointment.