Is the abortion pill the same as the morning-after pill?

Another name for the Abortion pill is RU 486. The abortion pill is two medications called Mifeprex (Mifepristone) and Misoprostol. They are sometimes confused with the morning-after pill. However, they are not the same. The abortion pill is a medical abortion.

In contrast, the morning-after pill is referred to as an emergency contraceptive. The morning-after pill is something you can purchase over the counter. The abortion pill can only be prescribed by a licensed doctor.

What happens when I take the abortion pill?

The first medication prescribed is Mifepristone, which stops the fetus’s growth. Then, anywhere from about 2-24 hours, the second pill prescribed is called Misoprostol, which expels the fetus from the body. To make sure a woman is safe during this process, we always advise for a doctor or other qualified medical professional (registered nurse or sonographer) to do an ultrasound to ensure you’re pregnant, and within the ten weeks, the FDA requires. We offer ultrasounds for free, see below how to be scheduled for one.

Are there side effects?

Yes, side effects may include:

• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• feeling dizzy
• headaches
• short-lasting hot flashes

Regardless of the intensity of the side effects, we strongly advise a follow-up appointment. Each abortion available, including the abortion pill, carries its own risks.

When can I take the abortion pill? And is it effective?

Women who had their last period within the past ten weeks (70 days) can take the abortion pill to end a pregnancy through a medical abortion.

• If you are 8 weeks pregnant or less, it works about 94-98 out of 100 times.
• For women who are 8-9 weeks pregnant, it works about 94-96 out of 100 times.
• If you are 9-10 weeks pregnant, it works about 91-93 out of 100 times.
• For women who are 10-11 weeks pregnant, it works about 87 out of 100 times.

Are you considering abortion? If so, where should you go?

At Marisol Health, we offer lab-quality pregnancy testing that is 99% accurate as early as seven days after conception, and an ultrasound completely FREE. We encourage all our patients to speak with an unbiased professional about ALL their options before doing anything. You should have ALL the facts and information you need to make the best decision for you. Visit us at Marisol Health to make an appointment. Call us anytime 303-320-8352 for our Denver East Clinic.

*** If you or someone you know has taken the abortion pill and has second thoughts, there is an abortion reversal pill available here.