medication abortion
Medication abortion is a method of ending a pregnancy using prescribed medications rather than a surgical procedure. It is commonly done in the first trimester (up to 10-12 weeks of pregnancy) and typically involves taking two different drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol.
Here’s how it works:
STEP 1
Mifepristone
The first pill, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the pregnancy to continue. Without this hormone, the lining of the uterus breaks down, ending the pregnancy.
STEP 2
Misoprostol
The second medication, misoprostol, is taken 24-48 hours later, usually at home. It causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue, similar to a heavy period. Cramping and bleeding typically begin within a few hours.
This method is over 95% effective when used within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. It is a safe option with few serious risks, though side effects like cramping, nausea, and heavy bleeding are common during the process. A follow-up visit or ultrasound is usually recommended to ensure the abortion is complete.
THE BENEFIT
You can self manage it in the comfort of your own home
Telehealth visits are available and as of now, medication can be mailed to you discreetly
Still accessible in some states with abortion bans
Lower cost
THE DOWNSIDE
The further along you are, the more painful it is to pass the pregnancy.
Can fail or require multiple doses
The waiting game for it to happen
Nothing’s changed just yet, but the far right has been working hard to ban Mifepristone. For now, though, Mifepristone is still widely available, and the combo of Mifepristone and Misoprostol is still the go-to for medication abortions.
Some organizations are suggesting that medication abortion can be safely used beyond the 10-12 week mark, in an effort to expand access to abortion since it's a more accessible option.
While the intention is to make abortion care more widely available, I’m concerned that this could lead to a much more painful and difficult experience, as well as increase the risks involved. So be wary when you see these recommendations.
MISOPROSTOL-ONLY ABORTION
If mifepristone becomes unavailable or isn't accessible, a medication abortion can still be safely done using misoprostol alone. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue. This method typically involves taking multiple doses of misoprostol (often 2-3 doses every 3-12 hours) until the abortion is complete. While it is slightly less effective than the combination of mifepristone and misoprostol (85-95% effective), it remains a safe and widely recommended option, especially in areas where mifepristone is restricted.
The Upsides:
Misoprostol is more widely available, affordable, and easier to access in many parts of the world.
Like the two-drug method, it can be self-managed at home and mailed discreetly in many cases.
The Downsides:
It may take longer to complete the process, and more doses may be required.
Cramping and bleeding can be more intense for some people.
Organizations like the World Health Organization endorse misoprostol-only abortions as a safe alternative. For legal questions or support, the Repro Legal Helpline is a trusted resource (844-868-2812).
It is worth noting: There are many companies that will ship abortion pills by mail. Many people are ordering abortion pills online from all states. Healthcare providers are able to mail to all 50 states, by using "shield laws" and having a license in the state they practice in. This shield law protects the provider. You may still face legal risks by accessing pills by mail in your state. For help with legal questions we recommend the Repro Legal Helpline at 844-868-2812.
