THE ABORTION PILL: AN OVERVIEW
The abortion pill, also known as a medical abortion, uses two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol.
- Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for maintaining pregnancy.
- Misoprostol causes uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy tissue through abdominal bleeding and vaginal bleeding.
This process typically occurs at home, under a provider’s direction, and is approved for early pregnancies.
HOW IT WORKS: STEP BY STEP
*It’s important to note that before the abortion pill is prescribed, an ultrasound is usually recommended to confirm gestational age and rule out ectopic pregnancy.
FIRST DRUG (MIFEPRISTONE):
Stops the pregnancy from progressing by blocking progesterone, a necessary hormone.
SECOND DRUG (MISOPROSTOL):
Taken within 24–48 hours, this medication triggers cramping and bleeding to empty the uterus.
FOLLOW-UP CARE:
A medical evaluation is needed to confirm the process is complete and to check for complications.
While the steps may sound simple, the physical and emotional experience can vary widely. Some women report intense pain or heavy bleeding that requires medical attention.
STILL LOOKING FOR MEDICAL ANSWERS?
FIND LOCAL CARE NOWFDA APPROVAL AND GENERAL MEDICAL CONTEXT
The FDA first approved mifepristone in 2000 for use under specific conditions and medical supervision. Since then, regulatory standards have evolved and recently, they’ve been the focus of renewed national attention and debate.
HERE’S WHAT’S IMPORTANT TO KNOW:
- The FDA has approved the abortion pill for use up to 10 weeks of pregnancy, but Florida law restricts all abortions after 6 weeks with limited exceptions.
- The FDA monitors safety data through its Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program, which restricts distribution to certified providers and pharmacies. These safeguards were put in place because of the potential for serious complications if the medication is used without proper evaluation.
- Recent federal reviews have reignited questions about whether existing oversight is sufficient, as expanding access outside clinical settings reduces medical supervision, something that can increase the risk of undiagnosed complications or delayed emergency care.
- The FDA’s own data show that post-market surveillance continues to uncover instances of incomplete abortions, severe bleeding, and infection, leading to renewed scrutiny of the process.
- Despite ongoing political debate, the FDA still advises that women not take abortion medications without an in-person medical evaluation to confirm gestational age and rule out ectopic pregnancy.
While medical abortion is sometimes described as simple, data consistently show a range of outcomes—and in many cases, follow-up treatment or surgery is required to address complications or incomplete procedures. These realities make professional oversight and informed decision-making essential before choosing this path.
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS (FLORIDA-SPECIFIC)
IN FLORIDA, STATE LAW REQUIRES:
- An in-person consultation and 24-hour waiting period before an abortion can be provided.
- Only licensed physicians may prescribe abortion medications. Mail-order distribution of abortion drugs is prohibited.
- The procedure must occur before 6 weeks of pregnancy.
These laws exist to ensure that every woman receives accurate medical information, understands potential risks, and has access to follow-up care when needed.
KNOW THE FACTS BEFORE YOU DECIDE
Every woman deserves to make a fully informed choice. Understanding the medical, legal, and emotional realities of the abortion pill can help bring clarity and peace of mind before taking the next step.
*SOURCES
Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation
Risk Evaluatioin and Mitigation Strategy (REMS)
https://www.fda.gov/media/164649/download
Understanding the Practical Implications of the FDA’s December 2021 and January 2023 Mifepristone REMS Decisions
https://www.acog.org/news/news-articles/2022/03/understanding-the-practical-implications-of-the-fdas-december-2021-mifepristone-rems-decision
Analysis of severe adverse events related to the use of mifepristone as an abortifacient
Gary MM, Harrison DJ. Analysis of Severe Adverse Events Related to the Use of Mifepristone as an Abortifacient. Annals of Pharmacotherapy. 2006;40(2):191-197. doi:10.1345/aph.1G481
Deaths and Severe Adverse Events after the use of Mifepristone as an Abortifacient from September 2000 to February 2019
https://issuesinlawandmedicine.com/articles/deaths-and-severe-adverse-events-after-the-use-of-mifepristone-as-an-abortifacient-from-september-2000-to-february-2019
One in 10 chemical abortions end in serious health complications
https://nypost.com/2025/04/28/us-news/one-in-10-chemical-abortions-end-in-serious-health-complications-report/
Florida Statute governing abortion
https://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0390/Sections/0390.0111.html