How to Safely Take Medical Abortion Pills

Taking the First Pill (Mifepristone)

The first pill you will take is typically **Mifepristone**. This medication works by blocking a hormone necessary for the pregnancy to continue. You will usually take this pill at the clinic or at home, as directed by your healthcare provider.

After taking Mifepristone, you may not experience any immediate effects, or you might have some light bleeding or spotting. This is normal.

Taking the Second Medication (Misoprostol)

The second medication is **Misoprostol**. This is usually taken 24 to 48 hours after taking Mifepristone. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.

Your healthcare provider will instruct you on how to take the Misoprostol pills. Common methods include placing them:

• Under the tongue (sublingual)
• In the cheek pouch (buccal)
• In the vagina (vaginal)

It's important to use the method recommended by your clinic and follow the timing instructions carefully.

What to Expect After Taking Misoprostol

After taking Misoprostol, you will likely experience cramping and bleeding. This is a sign that the medication is working. The cramping can be strong, similar to heavy menstrual cramps, and the bleeding will be heavier than a normal period, often with blood clots.

You may also experience:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Chills or fever (usually temporary)

These symptoms are generally normal and indicate the process is progressing. Your clinic will provide guidance on pain management.

Managing Discomfort and Bleeding

You can use pain relievers like ibuprofen to help with cramping. Use sanitary pads for bleeding; avoid tampons during the process to reduce the risk of infection.

Rest is important. You may want to have a support person with you during this time.

When to Seek Medical Help

While cramping and bleeding are expected, there are signs that indicate you should contact your clinic or seek immediate medical attention:

• Very heavy bleeding that soaks through two or more large sanitary pads in an hour for two consecutive hours.
• Severe abdominal pain that is not relieved by pain medication.
• Fever of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher that lasts for more than 24 hours after taking Misoprostol.
• Unusual or foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
• Symptoms of pregnancy that continue after the process.

Follow-Up

A follow-up appointment or contact with your clinic is important to ensure the abortion is complete and that you are recovering well. This is also a good time to discuss contraception options.