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    In force: The abortion pill

The abortion pill
In this section
What is the abortion pill?

Drug-induced abortion (also known as "the abortion pill") is a safe and effective way to end a pregnancy in its early stages.
How does the abortion pill work?

The "abortion pill" is the popular name given to the process of taking two different medications to terminate a pregnancy: mifepristone and misoprostol.

Your doctor or nurse will give you the first pill, mifepristone, when you are in the clinic. Pregnancy needs a hormone called "progesterone" to progress normally. Mifepristone blocks the progesterone produced by the body. They will also give you some antibiotics.

You must take the second medication, misoprostol, between 24 or 48 hours later, usually at home. This medicine causes cramping and bleeding to empty the uterus. It is a bit like having a rule with very heavy bleeding and intense abdominal pain. The process is very similar to a spontaneous abortion in the early stage of pregnancy.
How is the abortion pill?

The abortion pill is very effective. In the case of people who have 8 weeks or less of pregnancy, the pill is effective in 98 out of 100 cases. In the case of people who are between 8 and 9 weeks pregnant, it has an efficacy of 96 out of every 100 cases. In those people who are between 9 and 10 weeks pregnant, its effectiveness is 93 out of 100 cases.

In general, the abortion pill works. In case it does not work, you can take more medications or have an abortion performed at a clinic to complete the procedure.
When can I take the abortion pill?

In general, the abortion pill is taken up to 70 days (10 weeks) after the first day of your last menstrual period. If 71 days or more have already passed since the first day of your last menstruation, you can have an abortion performed at a clinic to interrupt the pregnancy.
Why do people choose the abortion pill?

The type of abortion you choose depends on your personal situation and preference. Some people are attracted to the idea that in the case of medical abortion they do not have to have a procedure in a doctor's office. You can have an abortion with medicines at home or in another place that you choose that you find comfortable. You can decide who will accompany you during the abortion or if you are going to do it without company. Considering that medical abortion is similar to spontaneous abortion, many people feel that it is more "natural" and less invasive.

Your doctor, nurse or health center staff can help you decide what procedure is right for you.
Next What can I expect if I take the abortion pill?
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