If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and considering the abortion pill, it’s critical to learn all you can to protect your physical and mental health.
Read on to learn the essentials you need to know about the abortion pill—including the physical and mental health risks. Or, if you want to talk to someone in person about your pregnancy options, contact Relevant Pregnancy Options Center today to schedule a free, confidential appointment.
How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
The abortion pill is a combination of two powerful drugs that are taken at home.
The first drug, mifepristone, is a progesterone blocker. Without progesterone, a hormone that’s necessary for sustaining pregnancy, your pregnancy will end.
The second drug, misoprostol, causes your uterus to contract and expel your pregnancy through your vagina.
What Are the Physical Risks of the Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill comes with risks to your physical health. These risks include:
- Incomplete abortion, which happens when parts of the terminated pregnancy remain in your uterus
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
You’re more likely to experience one of these risks if you take the abortion pill and your pregnancy is further than 10 weeks gestation—which is why it’s essential to receive an ultrasound before seeking an abortion. An ultrasound is the only reliable way to know the age of your pregnancy.
What Are the Mental Health Risks of Abortion?
If you feel at all pressured into getting an abortion, your mental health is at risk.
The Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons discovered that almost 75% of women who had an abortion felt at least subtly pressured into getting one. And many of these women suffered adverse mental health outcomes afterward, including feelings of:
- Shame
- Guilt
- Regret
- Self-hatred
- Worthlessness
- Being unworthy of love
- Low self-esteem
- Anxiety
Before seeking an abortion, it’s essential to know all the facts to ensure you’re deciding for yourself.
You’re Not Alone
While the choice about how to move forward is yours alone to make, you’re not alone in this. At Relevant Pregnancy Options Center, we’re here for you. We offer free, critical pregnancy services to help you feel supported and protect your health. Contact us today to connect with one of our caring team members.