Took the Abortion Pill- What Happens Now?
You’ve taken the first abortion pill (or maybe both of them). Wondering what really happens next? Read on for important details you should know.
You’ve received the abortion pills- maybe through the mail. Or it’s possible you traveled out of state to get them.
On the flip side – if you’re not at this point yet – then you might be here because you are just thinking about abortion and want to know your options.
Wherever you are in the process, you should have all the information to understand what comes next.
You also should know that recent studies have shown that abortion pill injuries are often hidden and not reported 1.
Because of this, many women don’t know what the true abortion pill experience is like.
And when they try to share their stories, they are disregarded or silenced by the media.
Considering Abortion?
Find out all the facts. Hear the true stories.
This post medically reviewed by on-staff nurse, Tomi Matlock, RN.
Note: The information on this website is intended for general education purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice.
After taking the first abortion pill
The first pill taken in the abortion pill regimen is called Mifepristone (brand name: Mifeprex). This drug works to block the hormones needed for a pregnancy to continue2.
Mifepristone is supposed to be taken only through 10 weeks (70 days) gestation, 24 to 48 hours before taking the second drug in the abortion pill regimen, Misoprostol.
So, what happens after taking Mifepristone? How will you really feel?
With this first pill, you might not feel many symptoms at first. You could find yourself nauseous, dizzy, or running a fever, though 3 .
Just note that experiences can vary quite a bit at this point.
Watch next: One woman’s testimony on her personal experience with the abortion pills.
Wait: Can I still change my mind?
It happens: you start the process and then change your mind about taking the second pill.
What if you decide you don’t want to continue the abortion, after all?
The good news is that there’s a chance you can reverse the effects of the first abortion pill – if you act quickly.
You can call 1-877-558-0333 and find an abortion reversal provider near you.
You can also start a chat with the nurse on this screen for more information.
After taking the second abortion pill
The second drug, as we mentioned, is called Misoprostol (or Cytotec).
If you proceed with the second abortion pill, there is no going back.
The exception would be if the pills simply don’t work, and you remain pregnant.
This can happen very early in pregnancy, or if you’re farther along than you think.
For this reason, you should make sure you have an ultrasound before any type of abortion. This step is critical to your health.
You can schedule an appointment for an ultrasound with us if you’re in or near the Mountain Grove, Missouri area.
Use the chatbot on this screen for questions, including ultrasound referrals for your location.
What to expect with Misoprostol
After taking the second abortion pill, this is where symptoms become pretty intense.
We’ve been told that abortion providers do not prepare women for what they will experience, which can include 4:
- Strong cramping
- Heavy bleeding and large clots
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever (can be a sign of infection)
- Headache
- Emotional distress
- Diarrhea
Some providers may downplay the symptoms, telling women that taking these pills will simply cause “a heavy period” or “mild cramping”.
But women’s real-life experiences often tell a much different story.
The result
After taking the second abortion pill(s), misoprostol, the fetus will usually be expelled after strong cramping and bleeding.
This can be emotionally difficult to process, as you will likely see the remains of your fetus (baby) during the process.
Even with an unwanted pregnancy, the feelings of grief and loss are very common and real.
You can see another personal story about what taking both abortion pills is really like here, as well as long-term effects.
The bleeding after taking the abortion pills can be very heavy, and last for several weeks.
It is recommended to follow up with your medical provider after two weeks.
Having a follow up appointment is meant to find out whether the abortion is complete.
If not, you may need a surgery to prevent infection and further complications.
Red flags to look for
While the symptoms of the abortion pills can be severe on their own, there are additional risks you should know about, such as:
- Severe blood loss (hemorrhaging)- soaking more than 2 large pads in 2 hours
- Blood clots larger than the size of a lemon
- Fever (a sign of infection)
- Severe pain
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
If you have these symptoms,you should go to the ER – don’t wait.
Be sure to tell your providers that you took the abortion pills so that they can treat you appropriately.
Pregnancy options overwhelming?
Book a visit at the Pregnancy Resource Center for advice & support.
Alternatives to Abortion
If you haven’t already taken the abortion pill(s), your local Pregnancy Help Center can help you with healthy alternatives to abortion.
We will listen to all of your concerns and help you address each of them.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Or start a chat with a nurse by using the widget on your screen.
See more abortion personal testimonies here.
Read next:
Abortion Complications: What to Know
What is a Medication Abortion Like?
Is it Safe to Order the Abortion Pill Online?
What is the Missed Period Pill?
What to Know about At-Home Abortions
How Effective are Emergency Contraceptives?
Ultrasound Before an Abortion (why it matters)
Abortion Pill Reversal: What is it, and Does it Work?
Sources:
- lifesitenews.com, Abortion pill injuries are massively underreported due to activists, complicit media: new report
- fda.gov, Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation
- profemina.org, What to Expect after Taking the Abortion Pill (Plan C)
- athomeabortionfacts.com, Abortion Pill Side Effects
