What Are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?

Rushing into a decision without all the facts can lead to uncertainty and regret. If you’re considering the abortion pill, you need to know that this option comes with physical and mental health risks that should not be overlooked.

Read on to learn more about how the abortion pill works and the risks involved—or contact Agape Women’s Clinic today to find a safe space to talk and ask questions.

The abortion pill, also known as a medical abortion, is a two-step process:

• Mifepristone: This first drug blocks progesterone, a hormone needed to maintain pregnancy. Without progesterone, the pregnancy will detach from the uterine lining and eventually end.
• Misoprostol: Taken 24-48 hours later, this second drug causes cramping and heavy bleeding to expel the pregnancy from the body.

While the abortion pill is often marketed as “safe and easy,” the reality is that it carries significant risks. These include:

• Severe cramping and heavy bleeding, which may require medical attention
• Incomplete abortion, which can lead to a potentially life-threatening infection
• Nausea, vomiting, fever, and chills
• Serious complications if you unknowingly have an ectopic pregnancy, which the abortion pill does not treat

Furthermore, some women have reported unexpectedly severe pain after taking the abortion drugs: 

I couldn’t walk, I couldn’t stand up straight. When I went to the toilet, I had to bend forward because it hurt so much to stretch. So it wasn’t much fun, you see. It’s okay to have a bit of stomach pain sometimes, but that was out of this world. [Participant 11]

Beyond the physical effects, abortion can also lead to mental health struggles, particularly if you feel pressured into the decision. Some women experience:

• Depression and anxiety
• Regret and guilt
• Emotional numbness
• Increased risk of substance abuse

The emotional impact of abortion can last weeks, months, or even years, especially for those who were uncertain about their decision.

Before taking any steps, you deserve to have all the facts. The best way to protect your health is to get a pre-abortion screening, including an ultrasound, to confirm:

• How far along you are
• If the pregnancy is viable (has a heartbeat)
• If the pregnancy is located in the uterus (to rule out ectopic pregnancy)

These are all facts you need to know before seeking the abortion pill—as certain situations make you ineligible. 

At Agape Women’s Clinic, we offer free, confidential pre-abortion screenings, including lab-quality pregnancy testing and ultrasounds. 

Our team also provides a safe, supportive space to talk through your options and ensure you have the information you need. We’re here for you. Schedule your free appointment today.

Agape Women’s Clinic does not provide or refer for abortions. 

All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.