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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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.