What is the Abortion Pill?
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 and Side Effects of the Abortion Pill
Abortion on Medical Aid
Missed a Period Causes
Medical Aid for Pregnant Women
Bleeding during Pregnancy
Medical Aid and Childbirth
Pregnancy Weight Gain
HIV Pregnancy
Due Date Calculator
Pregnancy Symptoms
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.
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?