Medication Abortion

A medication abortion, often called the “abortion pill,” is a non-surgical method to end a pregnancy using FDA-approved medications. It typically involves two medications:

• Mifepristone: Blocks the hormone progesterone, stopping the pregnancy from growing.
• Misoprostol: Causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue.

This method is effective up to 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Medication abortion is highly effective, with a success rate of 95–98% when taken as directed within the recommended timeframe. If it is unsuccessful, a follow-up procedure may be required.

After taking the medications, you may experience:

• Bleeding and cramping: Similar to or heavier than a period.
• Symptoms like nausea, fatigue, or chills: These are temporary side effects of the medication.

The process typically begins a few hours after taking misoprostol and may take 8-24 hours for the pregnancy to fully pass, though lighter bleeding can last for a few days to weeks.

Many insurance plans cover medication abortion, but coverage can vary. Please contact our office at (443) 394-0520 to verify your coverage and benefits. We will help you understand:

• Your expected out-of-pocket costs
• Whether pre-authorization is required
• Any applicable deductibles or co-payments

Financial assistance programs may also be available for those without insurance. For more specifics on how we work with insurance and financial assistance, please visit the insurance section on our fees page.

You may experience cramping and discomfort, similar to heavy menstrual cramps. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help. A heating pad may also provide relief.

Yes, you will need to visit our clinic for an initial consultation, which includes:

• A medical history review.
• Lab work and an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy dating.
• Taking the first medication, mifepristone, at the clinic.

The second medication, misoprostol, is taken at home with detailed instructions. A follow-up appointment is recommended to ensure the abortion is complete.

Medication abortion is very safe, but like any medical procedure, it carries some risks, including but not limited to:

• Incomplete abortion requiring additional treatment.
• Heavy bleeding.
• Infection (rare).

Contact us at (443) 394-0520 if you experience symptoms like fever, excessive bleeding (soaking 2 maxi pads per hour for more than 2 hours), or severe pain not relieved by medication.

Yes, but small amounts of the medication may pass into breast milk. Misoprostol is generally safe while breastfeeding, but as part of the initial consultation with the medical staff at Femi-Care, you will receive  personalized guidance based on your unique circumstances and medical history. Our compassionate, non-judgmental team is here to provide the care and information you need to make the right choice for you.

Most people can return to work or daily activities the next day, but avoid strenuous activities and sexual intercourse for at least 1–2 weeks to allow your body to heal. 

Yes, a medication abortion does not affect your fertility. You can become pregnant again shortly after, so consider starting birth control right away if you do not wish to conceive. We are happy to provide information and access to many birth control options, to learn more visit our Birth Control page.

Bleeding typically starts a few hours after taking misoprostol and may last for 4–6 weeks after the procedure. 

Contact Femi-Care at (443) 394-0520 if you experience symptoms like fever, excessive bleeding (soaking 2 maxi pads per hour for more than 2 hours), or severe pain not relieved by medication.