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Abortion Pill Information
Clear Facts Before Your Next Step
Start with what you know.
A pregnancy test and pre-abortion ultrasound can answer important questions about your pregnancy.
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THE BASICS, MADE CLEAR
How the Abortion Pill Works
The abortion pill is not a single pill. It is a two-step medication process used to end an early intrauterine pregnancy through 10 weeks.
The process uses:
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Mifepristone, taken first, blocks progesterone—a hormone needed for the pregnancy to continue.
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Misoprostol, usually taken 24 to 48 hours later, causes the uterus to contract and empty.
Before taking these medications, it is important to understand how far along the pregnancy may be and consider the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy develops outside the uterus and cannot be treated with abortion pills. Depending on pregnancy dates, symptoms, and risk factors, a clinician may recommend an ultrasound.
According to FDA guidance, this regimen may not be appropriate for someone with a suspected ectopic pregnancy, an IUD in place, chronic adrenal failure, long-term corticosteroid use, a bleeding disorder, anticoagulant use, inherited porphyria, or an allergy to either medication.
Cramping and bleeding are expected. Possible complications include heavy bleeding, infection, an incomplete abortion, or the need for additional treatment. Serious complications are uncommon, but anyone taking these medications should know how to reach their prescriber and where to obtain emergency medical care.
CWC provides cost-cost-free pregnancy testing, pre-abortion ultrasound for eligible clients, and a confidential place to ask questions before your next step. CWC does not perform, prescribe, or refer for abortion services.
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FIRST MEDICATION
Mifepristone
Blocks progesterone so the pregnancy stops progressing.
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USUALLY 24–48 HOURS LATER
Misoprostol
Causes cramping and bleeding as the uterus empties.
WHAT YOU MAY EXPERIENCE
Expected Effects vs. Warning Signs
Every experience is different. Your prescriber should explain what to expect and how to reach help if something does not feel right.
Bleeding & Cramping
Bleeding and cramping are expected after misoprostol. Bleeding may be heavier than a period and may include clots.
Digestive Symptoms
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, or dizziness can occur. Follow the care instructions you receive.
Fever & Chills
Brief chills or fever can happen after misoprostol. A persistent fever or feeling very ill needs medical attention.
SEEK URGENT MEDICAL CARE
Know the signs that should not wait.
Get emergency help for very heavy bleeding—such as soaking two full-size pads each hour for two hours—fainting, a fast heartbeat, severe abdominal pain, or a fever at or above 100.4°F lasting more than four hours.
BEFORE TAKING MEDICATION
Three Questions Worth Answering First
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How far along is the pregnancy?
The FDA-approved mifepristone regimen is through 70 days from the first day of the last menstrual period. - 02
Could this be an ectopic pregnancy?
Medication abortion does not treat a pregnancy outside the uterus. A clinician can assess symptoms and risk factors. - 03
Is there a reason this regimen may not be right for me?
Review your health history, current medicines, allergies, IUD status, and access to emergency care with a licensed prescriber.
COST-FREE AT CWC
Get More Information About Your Pregnancy.
CWC offers pregnancy testing, pre-abortion ultrasound, and a confidential conversation at no cost. An ultrasound is not required for every medication abortion; a licensed clinician can tell you what is medically appropriate.
CWC does not perform, prescribe, or refer for abortion services.
AN IMPORTANT DISTINCTION
The Abortion Pill Does Not Treat an Ectopic Pregnancy.
An ectopic pregnancy develops outside the uterus, most often in a fallopian tube. It can become a life-threatening emergency and requires different medical treatment.
Seek emergency care for severe one-sided pelvic or abdominal pain, shoulder pain, weakness, dizziness, or fainting—especially with bleeding.
QUESTIONS, ANSWERED
Make Room for Every Question.
Good information should help you understand your health—not rush you into a decision.
Is the abortion pill the same as Plan B?
No. Emergency contraception such as Plan B is intended to prevent pregnancy after sex. Medication abortion is used to end an established pregnancy.
Do I need an ultrasound first?
Not everyone needs an ultrasound before medication abortion. A clinician may recommend one when dates are uncertain or symptoms or medical history suggest a possible ectopic pregnancy. CWC offers pre-abortion ultrasound at no cost to eligible clients.
What if I have an IUD?
What if I took mifepristone and changed my mind?
Will my visit at CWC be confidential?
SUPPORT FOR YOUR NEXT STEP
Cost-Free Services in Philadelphia
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Pre-Abortion Ultrasound
For eligible clients, learn more about the dating and location of the pregnancy.
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Confidential Conversation
Bring your questions. Take the time you need. There is no pressure.
CWC OF PHILADELPHIA
You Deserve Clarity Before Your Next Step.
305 S. 13th Street · Philadelphia, PA 19107
