Safe Abortion
A medical abortion (or medication abortion) is a procedure that uses prescription pills to end a pregnancy in the early stages. The most common regimen involves taking two pills — mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, the hormone needed to support a pregnancy. Misoprostol causes cramping and bleeding to empty your uterus.
A medical abortion is a nonsurgical way to terminate a pregnancy in the first trimester. If you’re beyond the first trimester, your provider may discuss procedure options with you. Terms for procedure abortions are in-clinic abortion, aspiration abortion and dilation and curettage (D&C) abortion.
Who should not get a medical abortion?
As with any procedure, it’s important to discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe. A medical abortion isn’t a safe option if you:
- Are too far along in your pregnancy.
- Are allergic to the medications used.
- Have a pregnancy outside of your uterus (ectopic pregnancy).
- Use long-term corticosteroids.
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD). (A medical abortion is an option if you have it removed.)
- Have a blood clotting disorder, significant anemia or chronic adrenal failure.
- Don’t have access to emergency care.