Abortion Pill (Mifepristone and Misoprostol) Side Effects and How to Manage Them
Dr. Lisa’s Abortion Clinic offers both non-surgical and surgical abortion services. Non-surgical abortions, commonly known as medical abortions or procedures involving abortion pills, are intended to terminate early pregnancies. Surgical abortions are generally performed in the second trimester, up to 24 weeks of pregnancy, and the clinic also provides services for pregnancies beyond this period.
The clinic is dedicated to providing comprehensive information and support to empower patients to make informed decisions regarding their pregnancies. With a team of expert doctors, the clinic ensures continuous operation, being open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, thus offering flexible and immediate care.
The cost of services at Dr. Lisa’s Abortion Clinic varies based on the chosen type of abortion procedure. Although specific prices are not detailed in the provided information, it is clear that there are different pricing structures for surgical and medical abortions. For accurate pricing details, it is advisable to contact the clinic directly.
Dr. Lisa Women’s Clinic, the premier destination for abortion services, is underscored by its 24/7 availability. Offering both medical and surgical options, ensuring that patients have access to the necessary care at any time.
Abortion Process
In South Africa, abortion is a legal and regulated medical procedure, available under the Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act, of 1996. This legislation allows for abortion on demand up to 12 weeks of pregnancy and under specific conditions up to 20 weeks, and even beyond in certain cases where the mother’s life or health is at risk or in cases of severe fetal abnormalities.
Safety of Abortion
Abortion, when performed by qualified healthcare professionals in a proper medical setting, is an extremely safe procedure. The risks associated with a legal, medically supervised abortion are significantly lower than those associated with childbirth. Complications are rare, and the procedure does not affect a woman’s future fertility when done correctly.
Methods of Abortion
Abortion can be carried out using two primary methods:
- Abortion Pills: This involves taking medication to end a pregnancy. Typically, it includes a combination of mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone is taken first to block the hormone progesterone, which is needed for the pregnancy to continue. Misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours later to induce contractions and expel the pregnancy tissue.
- Injection: Although less common, some medical abortions involve an injection into the uterus to induce termination.
- Aspiration (Suction) Abortion: This is the most common surgical method and involves removing the embryo or fetus using a gentle suction device. This procedure is typically performed up to 14–16 weeks of pregnancy.
- Dilation and Evacuation (D&E): Used after the first trimester, this method involves dilating the cervix and removing the pregnancy tissue with medical instruments and suction.
Accessing Abortion Services
To access abortion services in South Africa, one must:
- Contact a Certified Provider: It is essential to reach out to a licensed clinic or healthcare provider. The Department of Health or organizations like Marie Stopes can provide reliable information and services.
- Make an Appointment: After contacting a provider, an appointment will be scheduled. This may include a consultation to discuss the most appropriate method based on the pregnancy’s gestational age and the individual’s health.
- Undergo the Procedure: On the day of the appointment, the procedure will be carried out safely by trained professionals.
What to expect After Using The Pills
1. Cramping
You should expect to experience cramping, especially after taking misoprostol. This is because misoprostol causes strong uterine contractions to help your body pass the pregnancy.
Your healthcare provider may recommend an over-the-counter or prescription pain reliever to help you feel more comfortable. But you should avoid taking aspirin, since it can cause more bleeding.
2. Vaginal bleeding
You should also expect vaginal bleeding as the pregnancy leaves your body. This is sometimes heavier than your normal period. You may also see clots and tissue. Your healthcare provider may recommend using sanitary pads for a few days to keep track of your bleeding.
Together with cramping, these side effects usually mean that the medications are working. But, there are some exceptions that we’ll cover later. Although uncommon, some people may need to have surgery to stop the bleeding if it’s too heavy.
Over the next week or two, you may notice some bleeding or spotting — this is also normal. Sometimes it can even last up to a month. Because of this, you may need to wear sanitary pads during this time.
3. Nausea
You may feel nauseated — or generally unwell — after taking misoprostol. This side effect is temporary and doesn’t last for very long.
But if you’ve been feeling this way more than 24 hours after taking misoprostol, get medical attention. Nausea, as well as weakness, diarrhea, and/or vomiting that goes on for this long can be a sign of a serious infection.
4. Fever or chills
It’s also possible to develop a fever and/or chills during a medical abortion. Similar to nausea, this should be temporary.
But if your fever is at least 100.4°F and lasts for 4 hours or more, contact your healthcare provider. This can be a sign of a serious infection, especially if you have a fever more than 24 hours after taking misoprostol.
