If you’ve just found out you’re pregnant or think you might be, Option 1 Women’s Health Center is here to help. We offer free, confidential pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and counseling so you can understand your options and make informed decisions with compassionate support.
What Medical Abortion Involves
Medical abortion uses medication, not surgery, to end a pregnancy. It does not require anesthesia and is typically used within the first 11 weeks of pregnancy, measured from the first day of your last menstrual period.
Medical Abortion requires you to take two different medications.
- Mifepristone is taken first. It blocks progesterone, thinning the uterine lining so the embryo can no longer stay attached.
- Misoprostol is taken 24 to 48 hours later, causing the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy. It is usually taken at home.
Before you take the medicine, a healthcare professional will review your medical history, explain how the process works, and discuss risks and side effects, whether your appointment is in person or online.
Do not skip this step. It is vital that you are under the care of a medical professional while taking these medications and that you can reach them quickly if you have any complications or need emergency care.
Medical abortion is not an option if you are more than 11 weeks pregnant, have an IUD in place, have a suspected ectopic pregnancy, have certain medical conditions, or cannot reach a healthcare provider in an emergency.
What Women Often Experience
- Vaginal bleeding and cramping
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Fever, chills, or headache
Pain medication may be provided for comfort. Infections are rare, so antibiotics are not routinely needed. But there are risks, such as an incomplete abortion requiring surgical follow-up, an ongoing pregnancy if the medication doesn’t work, or heavy or prolonged bleeding.
Some women experience mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, or grief, sometimes weeks, months, or even years later, or following a subsequent pregnancy event such as a planned birth or miscarriage.
Why Do I Need an Ultrasound First?
An ultrasound confirms the pregnancy, establishes how far along you are, and verifies the pregnancy is located inside the uterus. A pregnancy outside the uterus is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention and changes what options are available to you.
Option 1 Women’s Health Center is here for you. Contact us today for free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and confidential counseling. You deserve accurate information and caring support before making any decision.