What Is the Effect of the Abortion Pill?
A medical abortion is a two-pill process using the following active ingredients:
1. Mifepristone
Mifegyne®, which contains the active ingredient mifepristone, is taken first. Mifepristone is a synthetic steroid that blocks the effect of the body's natural hormone, progesterone. Progesterone is essential for maintaining a pregnancy. By blocking progesterone with mifepristone, the embryo is starved of needed nourishment. However, Mifegyne® usually does not cause the embryo's expulsion. Therefore, another set of pills is administered later.
2. Misoprostol
The second medication, which contains the active ingredient misoprostol (e.g. Cytotec®), is taken 36-48 hours later. Misoprostol is a synthetic prostaglandin, i.e. a hormone-like substance. It induces uterine contractions, which cause the embryo and placental tissue to be expelled.
ℹ️ For more information, go to What Is the Abortion Pill?
Vaginal bleeding and cramping are part of the intended effect of abortion medications. Occasionally, bleeding already starts after taking the first pill (mifepristone). In over 50% of women, bleeding and the expulsion of the embryo and placental tissue occur within 2 to 3 hours of taking the second medication (misoprostol).
❗️Note: The abortion pill regimen may have additional side effects such as nausea, dizziness or headaches. Medical supervision is necessary in case of more severe side effects.
Perhaps you are gathering information because you are considering a medical abortion. Your situation is probably anything but easy. Whatever you are going through, think about whom you could entrust yourself to. Your concerns and feelings are important because your life matters!
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