#HealthBytes: What is the Abortion Pill; Is it safe?
An unplanned pregnancy can be a worrisome situation for the majority of couples. Although, a couple, if avoiding pregnancy, must only practise safe sex (by always using a condom), however, if a pregnancy does ultimately occur, a decisive call needs to be taken. Broadly speaking, there are two types of abortions- Medical and Surgical. Here's all you need to know about Medical Abortions.
What is meant by medical abortion?
Among the two types of abortions- medical and surgical, medical abortion refers to the use of medical pills, in order to terminate an existing pregnancy. It is generally considered a safe and effective way to end early pregnancies.
How does the Abortion Pill work?
Under medical abortion, two different medicines are used to terminate the pregnancy, namely Mifepristone and Misoprostol. The first pill, ie. Mifepristone, usually given by a nurse/doctor in the clinic, is known to block your body's progesterone, the hormone needed for normal pregnancy growth. The second medicine, Misoprostol, usually taken 6-48 hours later, at home, leads to cramping and bleeding, to empty the uterus.
How effective is the Abortion Pill?
Medical abortion or Abortion Pill is considered a highly effective pregnancy-termination method. For 8-weeks pregnant women, the pill is as much as 98% effective. In case of 8-9 weeks long pregnancy, it works 96 out of 100 times. From a 9-10 weeks period, the medication shall work 91-93 out of 100 times. In case of a rare failure, an in-clinic abortion can be opted.
When should you take the Abortion Pill?
A medical abortion is usually done up to 70 days (10 weeks) after the first day of your last period. If it's been 71 days or more since the first day of your last period, an in-clinic abortion should be considered.
What are the side-effects of taking the Abortion Pill?
There are many short-term side effects of taking the Abortion Pill. These include dizziness, fever, infection, chills, nausea, vomiting, headache, intense cramping and excessive bleeding. Although long-term side-effects of the pill are quite rare, but if they do show up, seek medical assistance as soon as possible.
