The abortion pill should not be confused with the morning after pill as it is intended for use within the first 8 weeks of pregnancy whereas the morning after pill should only be used within 3 to 5 days after intercourse. The abortion pill, mifepristone and misoprostol, is an approved pregnancy termination method in South Africa and can only be prescribed by a medical doctor.
How does an Abortion Pill work?
Both abortion pills, mifepristone and misoprostol, are usually used in order to terminate a pregnancy. Mifepristone causes the embryo to detach from the uterus thereby cutting off essential nutrients and oxygen carried by the blood. Misoprostol is then taken two days later and triggers the evacuation of the embryo remnants through the vagina. This often appears as a heavy period.
It is advisable that you consult with your medical practitioner for a further understanding of how the abortion pill works.
Is the Abortion Pill safe?
The abortion pill is usually safer than a medical abortion or surgical abortion but should only be considered in the first 8 weeks of pregnancy. Like any procedure, use of the abortion pill can result in complications but if used under the supervision of a medical doctor, the chances of complications are greatly reduced. Your doctor will be best suited to handle any complications should they arise.
Dangers & Side Effects of the Abortion Pill
Common side effects include abdominal pain, cramping, bleeding and spotting for up to 2 weeks after using the abortion pill. Other side effects that may occur include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue and fevers. Side effects may not occur in every case and if you are experiencing any symptoms that are persisting, you should consult with your medical doctor immediately.
The abortion pill may cause a disturbance in your normal menstrual cycle in some users but usually there are no significant dangers associated with using the abortion pill. However using the abortion pill without the supervision of a medical practitioner or after 8 weeks of pregnancy can be dangerous. Uncontrollable bleeding, severe cramping and infections can arise without correct supervision and for this reason, you should never buy or use the abortion pill from illegal sources.
Always consult with your doctor or a qualified staff at a family planning clinic before you commence with any abortion method.
Related articles :
- Unprotected Sex? Condom Burst? HIV & Pregnancy Risk
- Causes of Bleeding During Pregnancy
- What is an Ectopic Pregnancy? ‘Tubal Pregnancy’
- Medical Abortion – Clinics & Methods in South Africa
- Morning After Pill & Emergency Contraceptives
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Hello, I used morning after pill 5 days ago (and a condom break 2 days before my period time, and took the pill in less than 24 hrs ), and now my period is late for 5 days. today I had a little brown blood in the morning, and that’s all. I feel a little pain under my stomach but still no period.
is it a normal side effect of Escapelle?
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Hi Concerned
It may seem like you are getting your period but it is not an actual period. Just a slight bleed at the time around that of your regular period. So yes, you could be pregnant. However this may only happen in some women in the first month or two.
If you have a very regular cycle and now notice that it is late, then you should do a pregnancy test immediately. However there are other causes for missing a period besides pregnancy – read this article on Missed Periods. On the other hand you may not be pregnant and just experiencing a change in your menstrual cycle. Refer to this article on Abnormal Periods.
Hi Worried
Usually after 8 to 9 weeks you will not qualify for just the abortion pill and surgical methods will be necessary. You need to first confirm that you are pregnant.
Is it too ;ate for the abortion pill as well? and if not how much of time do i have left?
Hi Worried
First you need to confirm that you are pregnant. Take the pregnancy test again. Remember to use your morning urine. If it is positive then you will have to consider your options. An abortion is your other choice because it is too late for emergency contraceptives like the morning after pill. Remember that stress can upset your periods or lead to abnormal periods.
So is there a way of forcing your periods? i has sex 2 months ago on the 8th of december. i had my periods on the 25th of january and now this month i am 6 days late already? im really worrying and i cant get the pills either without both our parents knowing about it. if they find out our relationship would be over. could i be pregnant? last month when i got my periods it eas a full 5 day period and when i took a preg test, the test remained blank with no answer i dint know what to do.please help
Hi Worried
No there is no pill among your oral contraceptives that makes you get your period. The contraceptive pill works by administering doses of hormones like oestrogen into the blood stream. This ‘tricks’ the body into believing that you are pregnant so ovulation will not occur. When you start taking your placebo pills, the oestrogen levels then drop. The body’s triggers a ‘period’. Using a placebo pill cannot trigger a period on its own.
i was told that in the contracetive pills, there is a pill that makes you get your periods. what will happen if you have this pill that makes you get your period while pregnant? will you miscarry???
Hi Unsure
If you had sex within the time of your period, then it is very unlikely that you would fall pregnant. The bleeding a week later could very likely be as result of the morning after pill and not another period. If it appears to be a period, then you are suffering with abnormal periods and you need to consult with a doctor to find out why your menstrual cycle has changed in this manner – most likely due to the morning after pill.
hi-i had sex the second last day of my period. i drank the morning after pill the day after that. my period finished but then i bled again a week later. was that a period? and i did a pregnancy test that came back negative, starting this week if my period doenst come i’ll be a week late. cpild escapelle have not worked?
Hi Alice
Actually many doctors are pro-choice but may still not prescribe the pill. An abortion is not just a matter of ‘popping’ a pill, going home and calling in if you are not feeling well. The host of complications that may arise makes many doctors hesitant to prescribe the pill and understandably so. Apart from the potential of litigation should something go wrong and blame is laid upon them, there is also the issue about those pro-life fanatics who are prepared to take a life in some countries just to prove their point. The doctor runs the risk of losing his patient base or even his life if he does not tread carefully. However given the availability of abortion clinics like Marie Stopes throughout the country, there is no need for doctors to have to take on this issue in their private practice. There have been many reports about the attitude of some nurses in the government facilities but if you have experienced this type of service at a private abortion clinic, then you can lay a complaint. If you deal with a private abortion clinic, you can access these emergency medical services should you have any complications. There is a Maries Stopes Clinic in Sandton which is about 50km away from Benoni so that is one option for you. Click Here for the contact details of your nearest Marie Stopes Clinic.
Editor,
Please note that i am not a teenager. i am in my mid twenties, in a long term relationship, a mother, and on the birth control pill- which in my case apears not to have been 100% effective. I missed my period and subsequently tested myself to see whether i was pregnant- i am. I understand that doctors are entitled to their own moral and ethical standings but are there none who are pro-choice?
I have done the research regarding the abortion pill and feel that this is the right choice for me since i am in no financial situation to support another child. However, in trying to find someone who could help me, i approached a clinic where i was bluntly called a “whore” by the sister in charge?! Then i tried to find a referral for a doctor online and contacted a “doctor” who offered to meet me at a KFC to hand over the pills?! Again, are these my choices?
I am just trying to find a doctor who can prescribe me the pills and who, should something happen (god forbid), i can call for help instead of the threat of bleeding to death.
Hi JJ
If you bought a home pregnancy test that is made by a reputable company, it should be sensitive enough to detect pregnancy within a week after intercourse. Cheaper or less sensitive tests may take longer. Most doctors do not depend on a urine pregnancy test to make their decisions. They will conduct a blood test and there are two types – one which confirms the pregnancy and the other that gives an idea of how far along you are. This is further explained in the Pregnancy – Urine or Blood Test? article on this website. Your GP may not just prescribe the abortion pill – he may advise you to go to a gynaecologist or an abortion clinic to get the pill. This varies among practitioners as discussed above by the other reader.
Hi.
I am on Triphasil and have not had my period during the red section. last pill today. I started spotting on the Saterday and then my husband and I made love and all spotting has stopped. I am 30 years old but we have both decided no kids. How soon can I do a home pregnancy test and if positive can I go to my local GP for a prescription for a medical abortion pill. Would he have to ddo a blood test or would a urine test be sufficient.
Why are doctors not prepared to help? Are they not the one’s who are supposed to be prescribing this pill? i live in benoni and have not been able to find a doctor who is willing to prescribe it. What do i do now? Is there someone out there willing to help? I now see how people are making a living selling the pills illegally to girls who are as desperate as i am.
Hi
I have actually taken the abortion pill and would like to warn any one with the idea that this is an easy solution that it is not. You will be inducing a miscarriage which is a painful experience and its going to last 2 weeks.
Before taking it I would suggest doing further research on what happened during clinical trails as that gives a clearer description of what could and possibly will happen to your body and the baby you have chosen not to have.
And for those who think now there’s a pill I can take I did not use contraceptives or manage to take the morning after pill think twice, as I would not quickly recommend this as an option or ever think of taking it again.
Hi Bubbles
Cipla is a pharmaceutical company as far as I know. You may have used one of their drugs. In all likelihood, you may have been on a course of antibiotics. And this can definitely affect your oral contraceptive and cause it to fail. You can read this article on doxycycline, a common antibiotic used to treat acne and take note of the warnings about using it in conjunction with an oral contraceptive.
Anyway, you need to take a pregnancy test and then confirm whether you are pregnant or not. If so, then you have to consider your options. But until then, do not let it stress you out. Do the test!
i am on the triphasil and it has been two weeks since i past the red of the pill but yet no period has come…I have taken in between a pill called Cipla for the use of my acne…please advise me as I already have 3 mouths to feed…
Hi Simphiwe
Nobody can force you to do something you do not want to do. If you boyfriend threatens to kill himself, then he needs help and you should inform his family. If he is threatening you then you need to go to the police. The decision is yours to make and while it should be made in consultation with your partner, it is your body and your decision in the end. Nevertheless discuss the matter with him and identify the concerns he has about the pregnancy. There is no way to estimate the maximum number of days that a bleed may occur. On average it is two weeks but this can differ from person to person. Anaemia is common in menstruating women so this should not be the only complication that concerns you. You need to speak to a gynaecologis or counselor at your local family planning clinic and discuss the matter.
I am 7 weeks pregnant and my boyfriend wants an abortion. I do not want to do it because of health reasons and the baby’s life that im puting at stake. My boyfriend is now threatening me about killing himself if i dont do it. Im afraid that i will be doing this for all the wrong reasons and this will come back to haunt me some day.I have anaemia and cannot afford to lose more blood. Will the pill be safe for me and the maximum days for bleeding is two weeks?
Hi Blue
Yes, it is safe to do an abortion at 5 weeks provided that it is performed by a gynaecologist or at a legitimate abortion clinic. The procedure does not usually result in complications, if done properly by a professional. Please discuss your health concerns with your gynaecologist before the abortion, as he/she will be better suited to provide your with the correct advice.
is it save to do abortion in 5weeks and what are de complications
Hi HazelEyeez
If you are on the pill, then your period should start approximately the same time every month since the period you experience on the pill is a “false period” and you did not actually ovulate prior to it. Sometimes it can fluctuate both in date and the type of flow. If you have been taking your pill everyday, then it is too early to assume that you are pregnant. These changes can occur. However if you are experiencing any other symptoms associated with pregnancy, like morning sickness, then you can suspect that you are pregnant. Nevertheless, if you are in doubt, do a pregnancy test.
Plz help. I’m using triphasil contraception pills.My problem is that last week my menstruation did not start heavy it started the following day heavy. Is the pills or it may happen that i’m pregnant bt drink the pills same time everyday
Hi Bee
Your medical aid will usually not pay for this type of medication. Speak to your general practitioner or gynaecologist about the pill. Altermatively, call one of the many abortion clinics available throughout the country and discuss your options with them.
Where can I get the pills from and will my medical aid pay for it? Please mail me the info.
Hi Amy
The morning after pill can be purchased without a prescription but the abortion pill usually needs a prescription. Its use should be supervised by a medical doctor, preferably a gynaecologist.
Hi Missy
You need to consult with your gynaecologist about this matter. Some of the possibilities include excessive bleeding, leading to shock, severe uterine contractions and the host of complications that can arise could ultimately affect your life or reproductive health.
what are the dangers of takeing the pill when you are more than 8 weeks pregnant?
has any body concidered NOT having sex instead of finding it so easy to just buy a pill that kills your babies?
whether you use a pill or suction or some other strange tool, it is still abortion..
if you really love these girls (who seem to be very young, as their parents are never alowed to know they are going to doctors) then maybe just give them time to finish school at least??
come on, you can control yourselves, i’m sure..
do i really need a prescription or can i just go to the pharmacy and buy it
Hi Amy
Prices vary but it is fairly affordable. Speak to your doctor about it.
how much is it…i’ve been stressin about my pregnancy…its has been two weeks…is it expensive in order for me to budget for it… i want to get it this saterday
Hi Burd3n
You first need to confirm pregnancy, irrespective of the presence of symptoms, rather than assuming. Ideally you should consult with a medical doctor or at very least, do two home pregnancy tests. If pregnant, then you have no other option but to consult with a doctor about the termination options. If your girlfriend is not pregnant, then at least use this experience as a learning lesson to practice safe sex, not just to prevent pregnancy but STD’s as well.
My girlfriend and i are sexually active, we have been active on friday night (16 oct)
And the next morning i took her to buy the “Morning after pill” called Escapelle, she took the pill around 13:00 and then we spoke to a medic in the family who told us that the pill causes her cycle to come within 14 days, well the last time we used it, it came within 6 days from being active, well my point is, we were active again that sunday(only once) because we thought it would start her cycle and that should clean up everything , well im worried if the pill will work, and if she will fall pregnant, her breasts are very sensitive since this friday, ive told her that if she starts having ANY symptoms of pregnancy that we should get a pregnancy test and then start thinking of taking a abortion pill,
Please advise im so scared and dont know what to do!!!
Hi Jimmy
Some practitioners will prescribe the pill even if the person is under 18 years, although parental consent is usually needed. Many clinics also overlook the age limit or allow it for girls as young as 16 years, however, in most cases they are cautious due to the possibility of complications that may arise and the fact that the minor was provided with the pill without the consent of a parent or guardian. It is best that you speak to the clinic or doctor directly. It is also important to note that a d&c may be necessary which will definitely require parental consent.
My Girlfriend and i have been having sex for a month, her period is 6 days late, and the only sign of her period possibly coming is that she tender breasts. we have not gotten a test, we want to start considering a pill abortion if she is pregnant, and i heard that public clinics do give abortion pills. I know of marie stopes, but we have to get it done without any parents finding out. Her mom would kill her. she is 17, is it possible to get one without a parent?
Hi Tshepo
Usually it is a maximum of 2 weeks and any persistent bleed that is continuing after that period of time may require medical intervention. Always consult with a doctor if the bleeding has not stopped or reduced significantly by that time. As for cost, it varies and you should consult with your doctor for further advice on the use of the abortion pill as well as the current costs.
Hi Greg
You need to consult with a medical practitioner. Hopefully you have done so already. It is difficult to assess if she is pregnant since her period is only 3 days late and changes in breast size or breast tenderness may occur as part of her menstrual cycle. There is always a high risk of pregnancy with unprotected sex. Consult with a doctor. Considering her age, most responsible doctors will require parental consent before allowing her to use the abortion pill so as to prevent future litigation.
How much will the pill cost? And does bleeding last for a maximum or minimum of two weeks?
P.S. The date of intercourse was September 20th. Could you possibly give me your personal opinion of wether she is pregnant or not?
My girlfriend and i have only recently become sexually active, and we have had fear of her pregnancy for two weeks now. We have yet to take a home preg. Test, but her period was 3days late, and the discharge was brownish and a lot less than usual. This is typical of ’spotting’ if im correct… Her breasts have also grown a little in the past weeks…. And at this time we are fairly sure she is pregnant. What im getting to with is post is: 1. Can the pill be perscribed without the consent of a parent/ gaurdian? And 2. An estimated cost of the pills.
You can get the abortion pill from marie stopes clinics all over south africa. They are very profesional and make you feel comfortable.
Hi Faith
I assume you mean at a government clinic or hospital in South Africa. The answer is no. You will have to see your general practitioner or gynaecologist who will give you a prescription to purchase it at your pharmacy. Private abortion clinics may be able to help though.
where are you able to get the abortion pill? is it possible to get it at your local clinic? or hospital?
Hi Aliendriver
The abortion pills are available in most countries. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist and they will instruct you accordingly.
Do somebody know something about this pill`s are available for foreigners?
Hi Maritza
As far as I am aware, the abortion pill is not available from your local clinic (I assume you are referring to a government clinic) or hospital. Speak to your doctor or gynaecologist as you will require a prescription to purchase the pill from a pharmacy.
where are you able to get the abortion pill? is it possible to get it at your local clinic? or hospital?