What You Should Know
The Abortion Pill, RU-486, or Plan C is actually the combination of two medications, mifepristone and misoprostol. Their job is to cause the abortion. They are not the same as the “morning after pill” and should not be taken beyond 10 weeks of pregnancy.
What happens when you take these medications? The first dose given is mifepristone and it is responsible for limiting progesterone from getting to the uterus which is required to maintain your pregnancy. Without progesterone, the lining of the uterus will start to break down, similar to what happens before your monthly period.
One or two days later, misoprostal is taken at home, which causes cramping and bleeding to expel the baby from the uterus. This process of cramping and bleeding may take 1 to 2 days. An appointment should be set for one to two weeks later to confirm the completion of the process and to make sure there is no infection or anything left inside of the uterus.
A few things you should know before taking the abortion pill
- You should have your pregnancy confirmed with an ultrasound to confirm how far along you are. Taking these medications after 10 weeks of pregnancy can create a life threatening situation.
- You should be under the care of a health care provider in case of complications.
- This whole process usually takes a few days but can last as long as 3-4 weeks.
- Side effects can include heavy bleeding, headaches, nausea, diarrhea, and fever.
- If the abortion pill fails, a surgical abortion will be required.
- If you have taken the first dose and you change your mind, the process can be reversed.
If you are considering taking the abortion pill, please contact us. We can confirm your pregnancy and offer a limited OB ultrasound to determine how far along you are, as well as go over all of your options.