Medical Abortion: What It Is and How It Works

If you’re wondering about ending an early pregnancy without surgery, medical abortion is usually the answer. It uses two pills – mifepristone and misoprostol – to end a pregnancy up to 10 weeks. The process is done at home or in a clinic, but you’ll need a health professional to guide you.

How the Pills Work

Mifepristone blocks progesterone, the hormone that keeps the pregnancy going. Without progesterone, the embryo can’t stay attached to the uterus. About 24‑48 hours later you take misoprostol, which makes the uterus contract and push everything out.

The combination is about 95 % effective when used correctly. If you miss a dose or take it late, effectiveness drops a bit, so follow the schedule exactly.

What to Expect After Taking Them

After misoprostol, most people feel cramping and see bleeding that looks like a heavy period. It can last from a few days up to two weeks. You may also have nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or low‑grade fever – all normal signs the body is working.

Keep a record of how much bleeding you have and any pain levels. If bleeding soaks more than two pads per hour for several hours, or if you get a fever over 100.4 °F (38 °C), call a doctor right away.

You’ll usually need a follow‑up appointment about one to two weeks later. A simple urine test or ultrasound confirms the pregnancy is gone. Some clinics let you do this at home with a kit, but it’s safest to have professional confirmation.

During recovery, avoid heavy lifting, intense exercise and sex for at least a week. Use pads instead of tampons until bleeding stops – tampons can increase infection risk.

If you’re worried about future fertility, studies show medical abortion doesn’t affect your ability to get pregnant later. Most people resume normal cycles within four weeks.

Access to the pills varies by country and state. In many places you can get them through a licensed pharmacy with a prescription, or via telemedicine services that mail them after an online consultation. Always choose a reputable source – avoid street vendors or unverified websites.

Cost-wise, medical abortion is often cheaper than surgical options because there’s no need for an operating room. Insurance may cover it in some regions; check your plan or ask the clinic about payment help.

Emotional reactions are normal too. Some feel relief, others feel sadness. Talk to a trusted friend, counselor or support line if you need someone to listen.

Remember, medical abortion is a safe, effective method when done correctly. Knowing the steps, what symptoms to watch for, and where to get reliable help makes the process much less stressful.