What to expect after taking abortion pills

How the medications are used

Mifepristone blocks a hormone needed for a pregnancy to continue. Misoprostol is taken afterward and causes the uterus to empty through cramping and bleeding. Follow the schedule and route provided by the prescribing clinician rather than instructions from an unverified source.

Medication abortion is not used to treat an ectopic pregnancy. A clinician should review symptoms and risk factors that may require evaluation.

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Bleeding, cramping, and other expected effects

Bleeding can be much heavier than a menstrual period, and cramping may be severe. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, fever, and chills can occur. The amount and timing vary, so use the instructions and contact number supplied by the clinician who prescribed the medication.

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Warning signs that need prompt medical care

The FDA medication guide says to contact a health professional promptly for bleeding that soaks through two thick, full-size sanitary pads per hour for two consecutive hours; a fever of 100.4°F or higher lasting more than four hours; or abdominal pain or feeling sick more than 24 hours after misoprostol.

Go to an emergency department if you cannot reach the prescribing clinician or if you have severe pain, fainting, weakness, trouble breathing, or another symptom that feels life-threatening.

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Follow-up confirms whether treatment is complete

A follow-up plan may use a phone call, symptoms, laboratory testing, a pregnancy test, ultrasound, or an in-person visit. Contact the prescribing clinician if pregnancy symptoms continue or if you are unsure whether the treatment was complete.

Care Net does not perform or refer for abortions. Care Net is not an emergency service. If you have already taken abortion medication, questions about dosing, complications, or follow-up belong with the prescribing clinician or an emergency department.

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