Medication Abortion
We offer medication abortion (sometimes called the “abortion pill”) through 70 days based on our ultrasound exam. We use a combination of 2 drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone causes changes in the lining of the uterus. Misoprostol then causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.
What to Expect
In Ohio, medication abortion requires 3 visits to the clinic. The first visit is the same as for surgical abortion and will last 3–4 hours. On your first visit, you can expect:
Day 1 Visit
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Fill out medical history paperwork
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Ultrasound exam
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Finger prick to take a small blood sample to check for anemia and to see whether you’re Rh positive or negative
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Private counseling session
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Private consultation with a physician
Day 2 Visit
During your second appointment, our doctor will give you an oral dose of mifepristone and a dose of misoprostol to take at home 24 to 48 hours later.
Once you take the misoprostol you may experience cramping in as little as 20 minutes. You'll have cramping and bleeding, and the pregnancy will be expelled. Most people pass the pregnancy in 24 hours, but it could take up to 48 hours. We’ll give you prescriptions to manage any pain or nausea you may experience.
Day 3 Visit
About 2 weeks later, you will return for an important follow-up visit to determine whether the abortion has been completed. At this visit, you’ll have a vaginal ultrasound and a brief physical exam. If the abortion is not complete, we'll talk to you about your options, which could include another dose of medication or a surgical procedure to end your pregnancy. If this is the case, Preterm will perform a surgical abortion at no additional charge.
Symptoms + Side Effects
Most people will experience cramping and bleeding similar to a normal heavy period. You may see blood clots and tissue that come from the uterus. This is an expected part of ending the pregnancy.
Bleeding or spotting lasts an average of 9–16 days and may last for up to 30 days. In rare cases (1% of the time), bleeding can be very heavy and may need to be stopped by a surgical procedure.
Common side effects include nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, fever, dizziness, and diarrhea.
A nurse is available to talk to around the clock if you have any medical concerns.