In early pregnancy termination, use of Mifepristone and Misoprostol pills are common. These meds are available on telehealth platforms and virtual pharmacies, while several authorized clinics also disburse these products. Before you take the pills, you must know about how they work, the dosage and administration, side effects and their management, precautions, and more. In this blog, we will explore each of these facets.
What Is a Medical Abortion at Home?
The two pills used in the procedure are FDA-approved. But, Mifepristone and Misoprostol work only if the pregnancy is within its first 10-12 weeks and no later. The method is purely non-surgical without the use of anesthesia, making it easy to be self-initiated at home in a comfortable environment.
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The antiprogesterone pill, Mifepristone, ends the pregnancy by detaching its products from the uterus wall by shedding the endometrial lining.
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The second medicine, Misoprostol, a prostaglandin, is taken sublingually / buccally / vaginally 24-48 hours later.
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Misoprostol 200mcg x 4 pills cause uterine contractions, dilating the cervix to empty the womb. The pregnancy contents disperse via heavy vaginal bleeding.
Is an At-Home Abortion Right for You?
The medication way to end an early pregnancy has a success rate of 95-98%. But not everyone is eligible to undergo it. There are a few considerations to keep in mind to check if you can take the pills:
Apart from the pregnancy being under 12 weeks of gestational age, it should be inside the uterus. If the pregnancy is outside the uterus (ectopic), undergo a surgical termination instead. An ultrasound scan can detail if the pregnancy is ectopic as well as how many weeks old it is.
If you choose a medical abortion, you must have access to nearby emergency care, a bathroom, and necessary supplies to take care of the side effects.
You cannot use the medication if the intrauterine device is not removed prior, have chronic adrenal failure, bleeding or blood clotting disorders, on long-term corticosteroid therapy, severe anemia / kidney / liver / heart disorders.
How to Prepare for an At-Home Medical Abortion?
Having the essential arrangements for a smooth pregnancy termination helps get peace of mind, and keeps you safe when you take the medicines. So, here is everything abortion at home, and its preparatory tips:
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Large maxi-sized pads are ideal for the heavy vaginal bleeding. Do not insert tampons and menstrual cups as it may raise the risk of infection.
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Place a hot water bag or heating pad on the aching points. Or, take Ibuprofen 600-800mg to tackle pain. Avoid Aspirin, as it may increase the bleeding.
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For comfort, keep light snacks and hydration liquids in the space you are in.
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If you are looking for support during treatment, call for help – a trusted friend, family member, partner, or someone you rely on.
What Happens During the Non-Invasive Process?
Here are the normal experiences during a medical abortion:
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On day 1 after Mifepristone oral intake, most females do not encounter any symptoms. However, some may experience mild spotting and nausea.
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On day 2 to 3, when Misoprostol is administered, cramping may begin in a couple of hours with heavy bleeding accompanied in 1 to 4 hours.
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The cramps are intense or moderate and last till the uterus empties. The bleeding may become lighter once the uterus stays clean, but may continue for 2-4 weeks.
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Recovery is smooth, you can get back to light chores in 2-3 days afterward.
What Are the Normal and Unusual Symptoms?
Some effects are expected and part of the medical abortion procedure, while others may require medical attention. Here is what to look for:
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Normal symptoms are intense abdominal cramping, mild nausea, chills, fever, headache, diarrhea, heavy vaginal bleeding, dizziness, fatigue, etc.
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Seek immediate care if you have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher for over 24 hours after taking Misoprostol.
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Also, contact a doctor if you soak through 2 or more large pads for 2 consecutive hours, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, or unmanageable pain.
Post-Abortion Care and What to Do Next
After 2 weeks of ending the treatment with Mifepristone and Misoprostol, here is the next step:
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Visit for a follow-up at a clinic for a pregnancy check and confirmation through an ultrasound scan. If the uterus is empty, the abortion has been successful.
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Use birth control when sexually active, but advised to stay off vaginal penetration until the bleeding ends. Ovulation can happen in 8-11 days or up to after 4 weeks, so there is no negative impact on future pregnancy.
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If you experience a mix of emotions, speak to a counsellor or a trusted person for emotional care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common FAQs about medical abortion:
1. Are abortion pills as safe as surgical pregnancy termination?
Yes, both the procedures have similarly a high success rate. So, you may choose either, but an in-home process is more cost-effective and can be done in privacy.
2. How long does the bleeding last?
The bleeding is heaviest for 4 to 6 hours or up to 24 hours of Misoprostol use. Thereafter, the bleeding turns lighter and continues for 2-4 weeks before the menstrual cycle normalizes.
3. Can I self-initiate the procedure at home?
You can self-initiate a medical abortion at home. But you may choose someone to accompany during the process for assistance and comfort.
4. What if I do not bleed after Misoprostol?
If the bleeding is absent after 2-4 hours of using Misoprostol, contact a healthcare professional. The medicine may fail if used beyond 12 weeks, for an ectopic pregnancy, and other contraindications.
5. How do I get extra abortion pills?
If you need a greater number of abortion pills, usually Misoprostol meds, you can take MTP Kit with Extra Miso Pack, or separately purchase additional pills.
