The recent challenge to the FDA’s restrictions of the drug mifeprstone has caused significant controversy and discussion about the drug’s safety and legality. On June 13, the Supreme Court ruled that mifepristone will remain on the market without additional restrictions. However, in the last year, misoprostol-only abortions have become increasingly popular as abortion providers reacted to potential additional restrictions of mifepristone.
It’s also important to note that the Supreme Court Ruling “leaves open the possibility that another plaintiff, including one who could show direct injury or a ‘sufficient likelihood of future injury’ could successfully bring the case in the future.” This means, this case could be re-opened in the future.
In light of this case, many women have had questions about the legality of abortion pills and the safety and possibility of a misoprostol-only abortion. Some online abortion pill providers temporarily pulled mifepristone from their sites while this case was ongoing, and prevented women getting abortion pills by mail.
What does Mifepristone do?
Mifepristone, the first drug in the abortion pill regimen, works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is needed for a pregnancy to continue. The drug causes the lining of the uterus to break down and cuts off nutrients the developing fetus needs to live.
What does Misoprostol do?
Misoprostol is typically the second drug in a medication abortion and is taken within 24 hours of Mifepristone. Misoprostol works by causing the uterus to contract, leading to the expulsion of the pregnancy.
Is a Misoprostol-only abortion a safe alternative?
While Misoprostol can be used alone to induce an abortion, it is less effective than using both Mifepristone and Misoprostol in combination. Using Misoprostol alone can also lead to increased pain and bleeding and a higher risk of incomplete abortion. The medical community does not broadly recommend a misoprostol-only abortion due to the increased side effects and pain. Side effects of a misoprostol-only abortion are:
- increased cramping and stomach pain
- nausea and/or vomiting
- gas
- heavy bleeding
- inability to urinate
- heavy sweating
- hot and dry skin and feeling very thirsty
- severe ongoing stomach discomfort or diarrhea
- painful menstruation and heavy menstrual flow
What do I need to know before I decide?
Not all women are eligible for the abortion pill or may have allergic reactions to misoprostol. Talk to a health professional if you have a history of dehydration, heart or blood vessel problems, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers, or kidney disease; you should not take misoprostol. You may also have questions like, what is the best route of administration of misoprostol for abortion? Is misoprostol legal in my state? Is it safe to order online? What is the price of misoprostol-only abortions? How do I know if it’s complete?
If you are considering a medical abortion, it is wise and in the best interest of your health and well-being to first confirm the placement and viability of your pregnancy by having an ultrasound. The ultrasound will help you gather the necessary information to help you make an informed decision by determining the location of the pregnancy, ruling out an ectopic pregnancy, as well as determining how far along you are and if your pregnancy is viable.
It is crucial for your overall health and well-being to speak with a healthcare provider to understand the potential short and long-term risks of any abortion method, signs of incomplete abortion after misoprostol, and get answers to your questions before you make a decision.
Pregnant? Start with MyChoice.
It is essential to consider your options and consult with healthcare professionals to make an informed decision about your pregnancy and health.
Whether you need free pregnancy services, community referrals, or access to additional resources, MyChoice Pregnancy Care Center is committed to empowering and equipping you through the process. MyChoice PCC serves the Middletown and New Windsor, NY areas. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you.
