If you’re considering the abortion pill, it’s normal to have questions. We’ve answered some of the most common questions to help you understand your options and feel confident in your next steps. 

You don’t have to navigate this by yourself. Our team is here to support you and help you explore what path is best for you. 

Please note: this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical concerns or emergencies. 

10 Commonly Asked Abortion Pill Questions 

What is the abortion pill? 

The abortion pill, also referred to as a medical abortion, is a medication taken to end an early pregnancy. It is a combination of two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Each pill has a specific role in the abortion process and can bring about its own side effects and risks. 

How does the abortion pill work?  

In the abortion pill process, first, mifepristone is taken to block the hormone progesterone which is necessary for the pregnancy to continue and grow. Then, misoprostol is taken to cause the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy. 

Does the abortion pill hurt?  

Everyone tolerates pain differently. Many women who have taken the abortion pill say they feel underprepared for what they experienced.  

Bleeding and cramping are usually most intense when your body begins to prepare to expel the pregnancy, this can last for several hours. 

Are the abortion pills safe? 

With any pharmaceutical drug, there are side effects and risks that affect each person differently. Complications such as excessive bleeding, infection, or incomplete abortion can occur. It’s essential to have a thorough pregnancy evaluation to rule out a nonviable pregnancy and ensure gestational age.  

Harmony Women’s Clinic offers no cost pregnancy evaluations that include a lab-quality pregnancy test, limited ultrasound, STD/STI testing and treatment, and pregnancy option education. 

If you take the abortion pill, make sure you have access to medical care during the process and know where the nearest emergency room is. You should have a follow-up appointment scheduled with your healthcare provider 1 to 2 weeks after your abortion. This is a crucial next step for your health. 

How effective is the abortion pill?  

The abortion pill is about 96% effective when taken within the recommended timeframe. The further along you are in your pregnancy, the less effective it is.  

The abortion pill has a complication rate four times higher than a surgical abortion, and as many as 1 in 5 women will suffer a complication like heavy bleeding or an incomplete abortion resulting in needing a surgical abortion. 

Schedule an ultrasound to find out how far along you are in your pregnancy today. 

How long do you bleed after the abortion pill? 

Bleeding typically begins a few hours after taking misoprostol and can last for several days up to six weeks. It is often a lot heavier than a period.  

You may see large blood clots, up to the size of a lemon, and tissue when you pass the pregnancy. The further along you are in your pregnancy, the larger and more noticeable blood clots and pregnancy tissue will be.  

It’s a good idea to have someone you trust with you when having a chemical abortion. Going through an abortion can cause a lot of conflicting emotions, both good and bad. Choose someone you trust to be there to support you, so you don’t go through this alone. 

If you are soaking two or more pads an hour for two hours, you are bleeding too much and should go to the nearest emergency room right away. 

What are the side effects?  

Common side effects include:  

• Cramping and heaving vaginal bleeding 
• Nausea 
• Fever/Chills 
• Weakness 
• Vomiting/Diarrhea 
• Headache/Dizziness 
• Anxiety  

More serious side effects include: 

• Incomplete abortion 
• Heavy bleeding that requires surgery 
• Blood clots in uterus 
• Serious infection 
• Severe or persistent abdominal pain 

How much are abortion pills?  

The cost of abortion pills can vary, typically ranging from $500 to $800. This might not include clinic fees and any testing they should perform. At Harmony Women’s Clinic we provide no-cost pregnancy evaluations.