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The Abortion Pill – Fact vs. Myth
Posted By: Parkridge Employee | June 15, 2020
What is the Abortion Pill?
According to the FDA, the "abortion pill" is a series of drugs taken orally to induce abortion up to 10 weeks after the last menstrual period. This process is called a medical abortion. The medications have multiple names: Plan-B One Step, Ella, AfterPill, and My Way. All these pills have the same active ingredient: levonorgestrel.
Since a prescription is no longer needed to purchase a morning after pill, there are more misconceptions and half-truths about these medications than before. We've compiled the top myths about these pills.
Medicated Abortion Myths vs Facts
Myth: The abortion pill causes bleeding just like a period.
Fact: A period is a natural process your body goes through to prepare for a pregnancy while the abortion pill is taken to end a pregnancy. The average bleeding with a medical abortion lasts 9-16 days, but can last more than 30 days.
Myth: The abortion pill has no risks.
Fact: All medical procedures have risks and the abortion pill is no different.
Myth: The abortion pill has no side affects.
Fact: All medical procedures have side effects. The most common side effects women experience after taking the abortion pill with medical abortion are cramping, tenderness and pain, bleeding, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The degree to which these effects are considered “normal” varies by person.
Myth: I won’t feel guilt if I just take a pill.
Fact: Both medical and surgical abortion procedures have potential emotional complications. Some women are surprised at their emotional response after an abortion. If you are struggling and would like to speak with someone call Parkridge at 806-794-8555.
Myth: The Abortion Pill is always effective in ending a pregnancy
Fact: A potential complication of the abortion pill is an incomplete abortion. This occurs in about 2-7% of medical abortion procedures. It is important to go for the recommended follow up visit 7-14 days after taking the abortion pill.
Know the Signs and Symptoms to Get Help
Even though abortion pills are taken at home, they are still a medical procedure. So, be smart. If you experience any of the the following symptoms, call your provider immediately. If it's after hours consider visiting an emergency room.
- Soaking 2 or more maxi pads in an hour for more than 2 hours in a row
- Passing blood clots larger than a lemon
- Chills and Fever greater than 101.0
- Foul smelling vaginal discharge
- Severe pelvic or lower back pain
- Fainting
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, or dizziness for more than 24 hours
- Continuing pregnancy symptoms (may include fatigue, morning sickness, breast tenderness)
- Depression
Know ALL your Options
Before you decide what’s right for you and your pregnancy, get all the facts about the morning after pill and your possible pregnancy! You have time.
Book an appointment at Parkridge and ask for more information about all of your pregnancy options.
Call 806-794-8555 today.
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