Making tough decisions isn’t easy, but you have to choose what’s right for you and your body. You have made a choice, and now you have taken the abortion pills, most likely mifepristone and misoprostol, and you are waiting for the effects to kick in. During this phase, there’s one thing that constantly comes to your mind: “Is what I’m feeling normal?” Worrying is normal. Medical abortion is not just physical, but emotional, too. Many like you are concerned about the medical abortion side effects you are experiencing and suspect that something is amiss.
So, let’s find out what side effects are normal and what are not, how to manage them, and take care of yourself during the procedure.
Understanding Medical Abortion
Medical abortion safely and effectively terminates an unwanted pregnancy. This approach is dependable, non-surgical, and most suited for pregnant women who are less than 10 weeks along.
The early abortion pills Mifepristone and Misoprostol are taken to terminate the pregnancy. Mifepristone, an anti-progesterone pill, also commonly known as Mifeprex or RU486, is initially used to stop the development of the fetus by blocking the production of progesterone, a hormone needed to sustain the pregnancy.
Mifepristone is followed by Misoprostol, a synthetic prostaglandin, without which you cannot complete a medication abortion. Misoprostol puts pressure on the uterus, triggering the contractions, so the fetus and other pregnancy tissues are expelled from the uterus.
Potential Post-Abortion Side Effects
Medical abortion side effects are normal, just as common as it is with other medications. The use of pregnancy termination pills can cause certain symptoms that are normal during the process, which include:
- Bleeding: After a few hours of taking Misoprostol, heavy bleeding is normal, but heavier than a regular period, sometimes with clots.
- Cramping: As the uterus contracts to expel the pregnancy, you will encounter pain in the abdomen, much more severe than period pain. It lessens after the tissues have passed.
- Nausea, Vomiting, and Diarrhea: Misoprostol contracts the uterus and digestive tract, so these symptoms are common for some time. They disappear on their own after a day.
- Fatigue: Medical abortion weakens your body, as it goes through the abortion process, and you certainly need rest for a day or two.
- Fever or Chills: Mild fever and chills are common after taking the abortion pills. They last for a few hours and then disappear.
Bleeding can last for an additional 10-12 days before gradually diminishing to spotting after 4-5 days. Every person’s bleeding and cramping occur at a unique time. Some people need only a few hours, while others may need a day.
What’s Not Normal? When to be Concerned?
The mentioned medical abortion side effects are normal and controllable, yet some symptoms may create complications and need medical attention. Understanding what’s normal and what isn’t is crucial because your safety is the most significant factor.
Be on the lookout for these things after taking abortion pills:
No Bleeding After Misoprostol:
Bleeding usually occurs after a few hours of taking Misoprostol, so no bleeding even after 24 hours could mean your abortion is either incomplete or didn’t take place at all.
Too Heavy Bleeding:
Heavy bleeding is normal, but excessive bleeding can be a concern. Using two pads in an hour for two straight hours means you are hemorrhaging, and that’s not something to ignore.
Fever That Lasts More Than A Day:
A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher that lasts longer than 24 hours, or that appears days later, may indicate an infection.
Severe or Ongoing Pain:
Cramps get better once the tissues have passed, but if the severe pain is still there and doesn’t get better with medicine, seek medical help.
Unusual Vaginal Discharge:
Some discharge is normal; but, if it is thick or foul-smelling, it may indicate an illness. The bleeding after an abortion should not burn, itch, or smell terrible.
Feeling Very Weak, Dizzy, or Faint:
If you feel dizzy, confused, or as if you are about to pass out, especially if you are bleeding heavily, it could be because your body is losing blood or is not responding properly. You should seek medical assistance.
How to Manage the Medical Abortion Side Effects?
Using mifepristone and misoprostol for a medical abortion is simple, and the side effects are usually manageable and fleeting. It is crucial to take care of your body during the procedure, and here’s how you can do so:
- Bleeding: Use only pads and avoid tampons to track bleeding and prevent any infection.
- Cramping: Ibuprofen can prevent the pain. You can also use a heating pad or hot water bottle to relieve the pain.
- Nausea, Vomiting, or Diarrhea: To avoid this, eat light on the stomach and bland food, like toast, rice, or crackers. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated.
- Fever or Chills: You should rest, dress in light, layered clothes, and monitor your temperature. If it lingers for more than 24 hours, you should seek help.
- Fatigue and Emotional Ups and Downs: Feeling overwhelmed with the medical abortion is fine, since your hormones are fluctuating. You need both physical and emotional rest. If you are feeling too much at once, therapy and talking to someone you trust can help.
Simple Self-Care Tips
- Avoid alcohol or smoking during recovery.
- Vaginal penetration should be avoided (tampons, sex)
- Take the prescribed antibiotics.
- Confirm abortion through a follow-up.
FAQs
1. How long do side effects last after taking the abortion pill?
Most medical abortion side effects last only a few hours, although some can linger for several days. The Bleeding continues for a couple of weeks, heavier in the beginning and slowly reducing to spotting.
2. What should I do if I have no bleeding after taking Misoprostol?
Heavy bleeding gives you the confirmation that the abortion pills are working, and soon the abortion will be complete. If you do not bleed after taking Misoprostol, it means either the abortion didn’t take or it’s incomplete.
3. Is vomiting after taking abortion pills normal?
Vomiting is one of the symptoms of taking abortion pills. The feeling does not last for long, and if it does, or restricts you from taking the medication as prescribed, get medical help.
4. When will my next period come after a medical abortion?
Your next period can take at least a month to return, as ovulation starts soon after the abortion is complete. It can be heavier or different from your usual cycles at first, as your body resets.
To Sum Up
You should be aware that medical abortion side effects are prevalent while using Mifepristone and Misoprostol. However, while some of these symptoms are normal, others may indicate difficulties during the medical abortion.
Now that you have read this piece, you will know what’s normal and what’s not, and it will be easy for you to tackle those side effects with proper medical care.