While the abortion pill can seem like an easy, take-a-pill-and-you’re-done process, it’s much more risky than you may think. Risks of the abortion pill, also known as medical abortion, include infection or even incomplete abortion, requiring another abortion procedure.
A medical procedure such as the abortion pill comes with physical and emotional risks to be aware of. You deserve to make an informed decision, so we’re here to give you the facts.
Physical Risks of Medical Abortion
Risks vary based on every woman’s unique abortion experience, but here are some of the common physical risks that occur after taking the abortion pill (medical abortion):
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Digestive system discomfort
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
The Mayo Clinic also notes that medical abortion is NOT an option for you if you…
- Are too far along in your pregnancy. You shouldn’t attempt a medical abortion if you’ve been pregnant for more than nine weeks (after the start of your last period). Some types of medical abortions aren’t done after seven weeks of pregnancy.
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD) currently in place.
- Have a suspected pregnancy outside of the uterus. This is called ectopic pregnancy.
- Have certain medical conditions. These include bleeding disorders, certain heart or blood vessel diseases, severe liver, kidney, or lung disease, or an uncontrolled seizure disorder.
- Take a blood thinner or certain steroid medicines.
- You can’t make follow-up visits to your provider or don’t have access to emergency care.
- Have an allergy to the medicine used.
Discuss your health with a medical provider to confirm these details. We at Echoz offer free and confidential pregnancy services to help confirm your pregnancy details.
Emotional Risks of Medical Abortion
There are also mental health risks to consider before making a final decision about abortion. Emotional impacts of abortion can include feelings of guilt, anger, shame, regret, loneliness, or depression. A report published by the American Psychological Association’s task force concluded that some women will experience the following feelings after abortion:
- Sadness
- Grief
- Loss
They also shared that women who have struggled with mental health issues in the past are at greater risk for developing significant mental illnesses such as depression or anxiety after an abortion.
Find Answers Today
Get the answers to your abortion questions and more at Echoz. We offer free pregnancy testing, limited diagnostic ultrasounds, and options education so you are fully informed. Confirm your pregnancy to safeguard your health and be alerted to any potential complications that require medical attention from your doctor.
We’re here for you. Schedule a free appointment to get started.