What are the risks and side effects of medical abortion?

Medical Abortion or Abortion Pills have always been around in the market with high demand. Though it may feel more popular nowadays but it’s just more openly spoken about from that of the past times.Abortion is a non-surgical procedure for ending an early pregnancy, usually within 10 weeks of gestation. It is a two-step medicine process that safely causes a miscarriage-like situation. Though highly effective (over 95% success rate) and safe, according to the major health organizations, medical abortion does carry risks and side effects. This article sets out to give a detailed review of what to expect during and after the procedure, including frequent side effects, possible complications, and when to call for medical attention.

Medical abortion primarily involves two major medications Mifepristone and Misoprostol.

Mifepristone is taken first, this drug blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for pregnancy progression. Without progesterone, the pregnancy cannot continue to develop.

Misoprostol can be consumed 24 to 48 hours later, this medication causes the uterus to contract, leading to the expulsion of pregnancy tissue.

The process consists of an early miscarriage accompanied with bleeding and cramping which begins within hours of taking the second pill. Most people complete the abortion within 24 to 48 hours, though light bleeding that may continue for weeks.

Common Side Effects of Medical Abortion

Most individuals undergoing medical abortion experience side effects, which are generally temporary and manageable. 

These include:

1. Heavy Bleeding and Clotting

Bleeding is typically heavier than a normal period and may include blood clots.

After consuming misoprostol usually the heaviest bleeding occurs within the first few hours and gradually decreases.

Some individuals may continue to experience light bleeding or spotting for up to 4 weeks.

2. Cramps and Abdominal Pain

Uterine contractions may lead to cramping from mild to severe, as painful or even more than period cramps.Misoprostol’s first few hours of taking may see one with severe pain which subsides with time as the process is completed. Painkillers like ibuprofen can be employed to alleviate this pain partially.

3. Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Nausea and vomiting are very common after taking mifepristone or misoprostol. You may also have diarrhoea or loose stools, a very well-known side effect of misoprostol.These side effects usually resolve in a day.

4. Fever, Chills, and Fatigue

Mild fever less than 100.4°F or 38°C may be felt by one, and chills might be felt briefly with misoprostol use.Fatigue and dizziness are usually experienced due to hormonal and blood loss shifts.

Potential Risks and Complications

Though serious complications are very rare and present in less than 1% of patients, they may be:

1. Incomplete Abortion

In about 2-5% of procedures, part of the pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus.

Symptoms may be a heavy bleed that does not stop after more than one day or persistent pregnancy symptoms (e.g., nausea, sore breasts).

Treatment may be a repeat dose of misoprostol or a procedure.

2. Excessive Bleeding (Hemorrhage)

Bleeding should be heavy, but over two large pads in an hour for two hours consecutively may indicate loss of too much blood.

Medication to stop bleeding or a transfusion of blood can treat heavy bleeding.

This is very rare.

3. Infection

Signs of infection include:

Fever greater than 100.4°F  for more than 24 hours.

Pelvic pain that is severe and does not subside with medication.

Bitter-smelling vaginal discharge.

Infections are uncommon but can be managed with antibiotics if they occur.

4. Allergic Reaction

Though uncommon, a few women may experience an allergic reaction to mifepristone or misoprostol.

Symptoms include rash, swelling or difficulty breathing. Dial emergency help immediately if this occurs.

5. Persistent Pregnancy (Very Rare)

Occasionally almost less than 1%, the tablets might not terminate the pregnancy.

A second scan is necessary to confirm that the abortion has occurred.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery varies from person to person, but most people feel improved within a couple of days. To aid recovery:

Rest for 24-48 hours.

Take painkillers like ibuprofen; other medications like aspirin should be avoided as it thins the blood and can cause excess bleeding.

Avoid having intercourse, swimming, and using tampons for 1-2 weeks to avoid infection.

Have a follow-up with your gynae to ensure the abortion is successful.

If you’re reading this, you’re probably facing a difficult decision and that takes courage. Medical abortion, sometimes called the abortion pill, can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone in this. Many women have walked this path before you. Keep some pain relievers like ibuprofen, cozy blankets, and a heating pad nearby and most importantly be extra kind to yourself during this time.  If you’re searching for medical termination of pregnancy near me, look for clinics with:  

Non-judgmental staff.  

Clear explanations of the process.

Follow-up care options.

And never forget this is your body and your choice. However you’re feeling right now scared, relieved, uncertain, all of that is okay. Trust yourself to know what’s right for you.You’re stronger than you know, and you will get through this.