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.
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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.
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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?