Medical Abortion (Abortion Pill)
ACWC offers abortion pills from the time pregnancy is confirmed until fetal cardiac activity is detected. People who choose this option desire a less invasive process in the privacy of their homes with their support person(s) nearby. Mifepristone and misoprostol are the two medications taken.
Medications
Mifepristone blocks the action of the progesterone hormone so the pregnancy does not continue to grow...
Misoprostol causes the inner layer of the uterus to shed, as it does during a period. Symptoms include bleeding and cramping.
Medical Abortion Steps
Medical Abortion With Clinic Visit
- Schedule an appointment.
- Review required State of Georgia information
- Complete most clinic forms from your personal device
- Take mifepristone
- Insert misoprostol*
*There is more than one way to take the misoprostol pills. Your provider will help you decide which option is best for you.
Medical Abortion vs. Emergency Contraception
Medical abortion medication is not the same as emergency contraception, also known as the morning-after pill. Emergency contraception prevents pregnancy. Once pregnant, the morning-after pill is no longer effective. A medical abortion is different. It ends an unplanned pregnancy.
Symptoms
Bleeding and cramping usually begin after taking the misoprostol. Many patients say it feels like a heavy period. Our experienced staff will provide medications and guidance to help with the discomfort. You can expect bleeding to be heaviest during the first 24 hours. Bleeding continues to decrease over the next few weeks. ACWC provides 24-hour access to our medical staff who can address any concerns before a telemedicine or in-clinic follow-up visit.
Short-term side effects of a medical abortion include:
- Strong Cramping
- Bleeding*
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever and chills
*Heavy bleeding that requires a blood transfusion is very rare.
Safety
Mifepristone has been studied for over 20 years. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved medical abortions, after determining the method is safe and effective without long-term risks. The abortion pill is 92-98% effective. Although the medicines rarely fail, ACWC recommends a follow-up visit to ensure completion of the process. We will schedule telemedicine visits after the clinic visit.
Cost and Insurance
The cost of a medical abortion varies according to the unique needs of each patient.
