The 8 Most Asked Questions about the Abortion Pill

The abortion pill is becoming an increasingly popular option for a safe, private abortion. It’s no surprise—it can be used as soon as you know you’re pregnant, and it can be taken in the comfort of your own home.

Have questions about the abortion pill and how it works? Read on to get your questions answered!

1. What is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill is actually two different pills. They can be taken the same day or, if necessary, the second pill can be taken within 72 hours, wherever you feel most comfortable. The first pill, mifepristone, blocks a hormone necessary for a pregnancy to grow. The second pill, consisting of 4 small pills called misoprostol, stimulates your uterus to cramp and bleed, similar to a period, to expel the pregnancy (similar to a miscarriage).

2. When Do I Take the Second Abortion Pill? Can I Take Misoprostol at Night?

You can take the second abortion pill anytime within 72 hours of taking the first pill. Many people choose to take it at night for added privacy, and with proper pain medication, some even sleep through the effects. However, pain levels vary for everyone. One of the benefits of the abortion pill is that YOU have control over the timing and environment of the procedure.

3. How Much Does the Abortion Pill Cost?

The price of the abortion pill varies by location and provider. At oyrafem, a video visit for abortion care costs between $0-$249, while immediate evaluations online cost between $0-$399, depending on eligibility for financial assistance. An in-center abortion pill appointment typically costs between $450-$475, depending on the location. If cost is a concern, oyrafem offers funding options that may help reduce costs through financial assistance.

4. When is it Too Late to Take the Abortion Pill?

You can take the abortion pill if you are 12 weeks pregnant or less. However, it’s important to take time to consider all of your options. There are various ways to address an unintended pregnancy—you determine the best path based on your individual circumstances.

5. Is the Abortion Pill Safe?

The abortion pill is extremely safe! It has been used by hundreds of thousands of people in the U.S. since the year 2000 and millions worldwide for over 20 years. There are no indications that the abortion pill affects a person’s ability to have a baby when they’re ready. Using the abortion pill does not affect getting pregnant or staying pregnant in the future.

6. What Does the Abortion Pill Feel Like?

A common question is whether an abortion hurts. The truth is that the experience is different for everyone, just like periods are different for each person. It can be painful or just uncomfortable—everyone reacts differently. Thousands of people have successfully used this method for the past 20 years. Your oyrafem healthcare team can help prepare you for the experience.

For most people, a medication abortion feels like having an early miscarriage or a heavy period with mild flu-like symptoms. You could experience:

Cramping and aches in your belly
Heavy bleeding with large blood clots
Upset stomach or vomiting
Diarrhea
Dizziness
Tiredness
Mild fever (99-100° F) or chills the day you take misoprostol

If you don’t have any bleeding within 24 hours after taking the second pill, contact oyrafem or your provider for advice. Some people respond well to an additional dose of misoprostol. If at any point you experience very heavy bleeding or flu-like symptoms that worsen after 24 hours, call your doctor or health center immediately. Don’t worry, oyrafem will provide pain and anti-nausea medications to help manage these effects.

7. How Effective Is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill is highly effective! Around 98% of clients successfully complete their abortion when using the pill.

8. How Do I Get the Abortion Pill?

The best way to obtain the abortion pill is by visiting an experienced abortion provider. oyrafem offers video visits and immediate evaluations for the abortion pill online. If you live in the DC, Chicago, or Atlanta areas, you can make an appointment at one of our health centers. At oyrafem centers, abortion pill appointments typically take less than an hour and can often be scheduled within a few days, sometimes even on the same day or next.

If you live outside these areas, you may be able to find a provider near you.

Remember: whether or not you have an abortion, and how you choose to do it, is entirely up to you. We’re here to discuss your options—just give us a call us or chat with us here on our website.