If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and considering abortion, you’re not alone. And we’re so glad you’re asking important questions and taking the time to gather information.
At the Pregnancy Care Center of Rincon, we understand how overwhelming this situation can be. We’re here to offer you clarity, support, and the information you need as you weigh your options.
Read on to learn more about how medical abortion works, the risks involved, and why you need an ultrasound before making any pregnancy decision.
How Does Medical Abortion Work?
Medical abortion, often known as the abortion pill, involves two drugs—mifepristone and misoprostol. The first pill, mifepristone, blocks the effects of the hormone progesterone which is necessary for the continuation of pregnancy. The embryo’s connection with the uterus is lost, usually causing loss of the pregnancy.
Misoprostol, taken later, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy out through the vagina. Cramping may be severe and bleeding usually lasts one to two weeks.
The abortion drugs are only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is 10 weeks gestation or less—and if you take these after 10 weeks, you’re more likely to experience a risk of serious complications.
Physical and Emotional Risks
While medical abortion is often presented as simple, it’s important to understand the potential physical and emotional risks involved.
Physically, complications can include heavy and prolonged bleeding and incomplete abortion, which is when parts of the terminated pregnancy remain in your uterus and can lead to a potentially life-threatening infection.
Emotionally, reactions vary greatly from woman to woman. Some may feel immediate relief. Others may experience sadness, regret, anxiety, or even depression days, weeks, or years later.
This is why it’s so important to think through how you feel about abortion and ensure that you’re not being pressured into it.
Why You Need an Ultrasound Before Deciding
Getting an ultrasound is a critical step before considering medical abortion. An ultrasound confirms how far along you are, ensuring medical abortion is even an option.
Ultrasound also verifies that the pregnancy is located in the uterus, which is essential for ruling out a life-threatening ectopic pregnancy. Ultrasound also confirms that your pregnancy is viable (has a heartbeat; if you’ve miscarried, you aren’t eligible for the abortion drugs).
A Safe Place to Talk and Learn More
At the Pregnancy Care Center of Rincon, we offer a safe, non-judgmental space to discuss your concerns, learn more about your pregnancy, and explore all your options.
We provide free, limited ultrasounds if you receive a positive pregnancy test in our center, as well as essential information that empowers you to make a fully informed decision.
While we don’t perform or refer for abortions, we’re committed to equipping you with clarity, compassion, and comprehensive support.
You don’t have to navigate this alone—we’re here for you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your confidential appointment.