If you’ve recently learned you’re pregnant, you may be feeling overwhelmed by questions about your future and your options. Before making any pregnancy decision, it’s important to understand the facts about your pregnancy and the options available to you.

The abortion pill is often discussed in simple terms online, but there are important details many women don’t know about, including eligibility requirements, physical risks, side effects, and what to expect during the process.

You can also contact New Life Clinic at any time to schedule a free and confidential appointment to speak with one of our caring client advocates, who can answer all your questions and discuss your options.

It Is Actually Two Drugs, Not One

Medical abortion is commonly called the abortion pill, but it is really a two-drug regimen used to end a viable pregnancy.

The first drug, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone from your uterus. Without progesterone, the pregnancy detaches from the uterine wall and stops growing.

The second drug, misoprostol, is taken 24 to 48 hours later. It causes your uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy and related tissue from your body through the vagina.

There Is a Strict Time Limit

According to the FDA, the abortion pill is only approved for use during the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. That is why confirming your pregnancy’s gestational age with an ultrasound is one of the most important first steps. 

An ultrasound also confirms that your pregnancy is located in the uterus rather than an ectopic pregnancy, which the abortion pill cannot treat.

Not Every Woman Is Eligible

Even within the 10-week window, certain health factors can make medical abortion unsafe. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, you may not be a candidate if you:

  • Have an intrauterine device (IUD) in place
  • Take blood thinners or certain steroid medications
  • Have a bleeding disorder, severe anemia, or an uncontrolled seizure disorder
  • Have heart, liver, or kidney disease
  • Cannot reach emergency care or attend follow-up visits

Physical and Mental Health Risks

Physical risks of the abortion pill include heavy bleeding, infection, fever, digestive pain, and an incomplete abortion that may require a follow-up surgical procedure.

Research has also linked abortion to a higher risk of mental health concerns for women, including depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and substance use. 

Knowing this ahead of time can help you plan for the kind of support you may need afterward.

Get Clear Answers Before You Decide

New Life Clinic offers free pregnancy confirmation, ultrasound referrals, and a calm space to ask questions and review every option.

Contact us today to schedule your no-cost and confidential appointment.