If you’re facing an unplanned or unexpected pregnancy, you may be researching medical abortion, also known as the abortion pill, and trying to sort through your next step quickly. But there are a few facts about medical abortion that many women don’t hear until they’re already in the middle of it.

Before you take any steps, get the information you need in person. At Choices of the Heart, we provide no-cost, confidential services, including medical-grade pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds after a positive test to confirm your pregnancy. Our team is here to help you understand what’s happening and what options may be available.

Schedule your appointment today.

1. A Pregnancy Test Alone Doesn’t Tell You Enough

A positive pregnancy test only shows that human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is present. It can’t tell you how far along you are, an important detail since medical abortion is FDA-approved only through 10 weeks, nor can it show whether the pregnancy is in the uterus, or whether it appears to be developing.

An ultrasound can help clarify those details. It can also help identify an ectopic pregnancy (when the pregnancy implants outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube), which can become life-threatening if it ruptures. Ultrasound can also assess viability by checking for a detectable heartbeat. This is important since miscarriage occurs in about 10–20% of known pregnancies.

2. Medical Abortion Involves More Than One Step

Medical abortion involves two drugs taken at different times. The first drug, mifepristone, blocks progesterone, a hormone needed to sustain pregnancy. After a day or two later, misoprostol is taken to cause cramping and bleeding as the uterus expels the pregnancy.

Many women assume it will feel like a heavy period, but the experience can be more intense than expected.

3. Side Effects Can Include More Than Cramping

Bleeding and cramping are expected. Other side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chills, or fever.

In some cases, women need follow-up medical care if bleeding is heavy or if the abortion is incomplete. Having medical support and clear information beforehand can help you know what potential complications to take seriously.

4. Your Situation and Health History Matter

Medical abortion is not recommended for everyone. Certain health conditions, medications, IUD, ectopic pregnancy, or not having access to emergency care or other risk factors can affect what is safest for your body.

Talking with a medical professional first can help you understand what questions to ask and what information you may need before making a decision.

5. If You Regret Taking the First Pill, Time Matters

If you have taken the first abortion pill and immediately regret it, Abortion Pill Reversal (APR) may be possible in some cases. Because timing is critical, Choices of the Heart offers a 24/7 care line so you can reach someone quickly.

You can also contact the Abortion Pill Rescue Network (APRN), which operates a 24/7 helpline to provide time-sensitive information and connect you with a medical provider.

Take Your Next Step With Support

If you feel pressured, unsure, or alone, you are not the only one. At Choices of the Heart, our advocates offer a welcoming environment where every client is treated with compassion. We also provide parenting education for women and men, because support matters.

Call or schedule your no-cost, confidential appointment today.

Choices of the Heart does not provide or refer for abortion.