Abortion Pill FAQ
1
How far along do I need to be to have a chemical abortion/get the abortion pill?
This is usually only used before 10 weeks LMP (last menstrual period).
2
What are the risks of the abortion pill?
After a chemical abortion, you will likely experience cramping with a large amount of bleeding with large blood clots. You may also experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, a low grade fever, infection, and in very rare cases death. There is also a chance that the pill won't work, and you will remain pregnant. "The procedure is unsuccessful <3.2% of the time prior to 57 days, 6.5 % from 57-63 days and 7.2% from 63-70 days gestation"1
Many women also experience new or triggered mental health issues following their abortions. These conditions can include anxiety, depression, or trauma-related symptoms. Mental health symptoms may occur days to years after abortion.
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*IF YOU HAVE TAKEN THE ABORTION PILL (ONE OR BOTH MEDICATIONS) AND YOU HAVE ANY CONCERNS ABOUT HOW YOU ARE FEELING PHYSICALLY, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR CARE PROVIDER ASAP!
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1 Mifeprex Label (2016), Table 4.
3
What if I've taken the pill, but I've changed my mind?
All hope is not lost! Our center offers a treatment called APR (Abortion Pill Reversal). After an appointment with our medical director (a licensed, obstetric and gynecologic physician), he will determine eligibility for a prescription of progesterone, making it possible to counteract the effects of mifepristone (the first medication given during a chemical abortion).
There is about a 50% chance of continuing a healthy pregnancy if this treatment plan is started within 72 hours of taking mifepristone.
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Contact us today if you'd like to see if you are eligible for the APR treatment.
4
What does the PCCOB do to support people who choose the abortion pill?
At the PCCOB, we care deeply about your health. Therefore, we can't in good conscious, perform or refer for abortion. However, we want to make sure that you have all of the information that you need before making a decision. Our goal is NOT to force you to choose anything. Our purpose is to make sure you have accurate information and to answer any questions you have so you can make the best decision.
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If you have had an abortion in the past, whether it has been a week or many years, PCCOB is here to support you. We understand that, often, abortion causes mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. Our team of registered nurses and client advocates are here to help you navigate these issues. We provide supportive services and assistance in getting appropriate care for your issues.