When considering every pregnancy option, from abortion to parenting to adoption, you want to evaluate every risk before moving forward.
Each option will impact your life differently, so you want to be absolutely confident in your choice. Keep reading to learn about one of your options, at-home abortion, and the risks associated with it.
At-Home Abortion: How Does it Work?
Medical abortion goes by many names. At-home abortion, the abortion pill, chemical abortion, and DIY abortion are only a few of them. It’s called terms like “at-home” and “DIY” because you typically finish the procedure at home using medication.
Regardless of the name or the specific regimen, medical abortion uses two drugs: Mifepristone and Misoprostol.
Mifepristone is typically administered in a clinic by a physician. It blocks the vital pregnancy hormone, progesterone, preventing the embryo or fetus from staying implanted or growing.
Once Mifepristone terminates the pregnancy with this method, you would take Misoprostol about 24 to 72 hours later at home. This drug causes the uterus to contract and expel the embryo or fetus through the vagina with cramping and bleeding.
What Are the Risks of At-Home Abortion?
As with any medical procedure, at-home abortion does have risks. Mayo Clinic lists the following as potential risks for medical abortion:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
You would need to seek medical attention after the procedure if you experienced a foul-smelling vaginal odor, a fever lasting over 24 hours, heavy bleeding, or severe back or abdominal pain.
Who’s Eligible for at-home Abortion?
At-home abortion is only FDA approved for those who have been pregnant for 70 days or less since the first day of their last menstrual cycle. The effectiveness decreases as you become further along in pregnancy. After 70 days, you would only be eligible for surgical abortion procedures.
At-home abortion is also not an option if you…
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD)
- Suspect you have an ectopic pregnancy (located outside the uterus)
- Have certain medical conditions
- Take a blood thinner
- Are unable to make follow-up visits to a doctor or don’t have access to emergency care
- Have an allergy to the drugs used
But First, Schedule an Appointment
If you’re considering having an at-home abortion, first schedule a free and confidential appointment at North Care Women’s Clinic. Our medical staff will talk with you about any concerns you have, provide information, and perform an ultrasound scan if you qualify. We do not provide or refer for abortions but are your best first step to make a confident decision about what is right for you.
An ultrasound can tell you how far along you are, and if you have a progressing pregnancy, located in the uterus. It will give you key details to know which pregnancy options you’re eligible for. Call us today at 215-855-2424 or request an appointment online.
We’re here to support you and as you navigate your pregnancy options.
