A woman thinking about the risks of the abortion pill

What Are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?

Medical risks are associated with the abortion pill that every woman should know about before making a decision. Being informed going in is one of the most important steps you can take for your health.

Florida Abortion Pill Info is here to connect you with nearby care and the reliable information so you can make an informed decision.

Medical Risks to Be Aware Of

The abortion pill involves two drugs taken in succession within 24 to 48 hours. The first, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for a pregnancy to continue. The second, misoprostol, causes cramping and vaginal bleeding that help expel the pregnancy and related tissue from the uterus.

This method is FDA-approved for use only through 10 weeks of gestation.*

Known risks associated with the abortion pill include:

  • An incomplete abortion occurs when the uterus fails to fully empty
  • Infection, which can develop as a result of an incomplete abortion
  • Heavy or prolonged bleeding
  • Digestive issues such as nausea, pain, or diarrhea
  • Fever, which can be a sign of infection
  • A continuing pregnancy if the drugs do not work as intended

Any of these symptoms warrants prompt medical attention. If you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, or a high fever, seek emergency care right away.

Risks That Can Be Avoided With Proper Screening

Potential risks can be identified and prevented when a medical professional conducts appropriate screenings before the abortion pill is taken. Without a confirmed gestational age, pregnancy verification, and a review of your medical history, you may be unaware of conditions that significantly affect your safety:

  • Taking the drugs beyond the FDA-approved 10-week window increases the likelihood of complications and reduces effectiveness
  • An undetected ectopic pregnancy can cause life-threatening internal bleeding if not identified and treated in time
  • An undetected sexually transmitted infection can progress to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
  • An undiagnosed miscarriage means taking serious drugs when they are no longer necessary
  • Certain medications, including blood thinners or steroids, can make the abortion pill unsafe to use

This is why professional medical oversight is not optional. It is a critical part of protecting your health.

Get the Information You Need

If you have questions about the abortion pill or its risks, you don’t have to search for answers alone; Florida Abortion Pill Info is here to help. Explore the FAQ page for common questions, visit What To Know Before for important pre-abortion information, or use the Find Care Nearby tool to locate local support.

*Abortion is currently legal in Florida up to six weeks of pregnancy. This means certain procedures may not be available in this state.

The abortion and legal information sourced in this blog is accurate at the time of writing.