Medication abortion is a non-surgical option for ending an early pregnancy using FDA-approved medications. This option is generally available up to 10 weeks of pregnancy, based on medical eligibility.
Medication abortion involves taking two different medications. The first medication, which is taken the first day, stops the pregnancy from continuing. After 24-36 hours, the second medication causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue, similar to a miscarriage.
Most patients experience bleeding and cramping a few hours after taking the second medication. Other common effects can include nausea, fever/chills, diarrhea, headache, or fatigue. The experience varies from person to person.
Medication abortion does not involve anesthesia or a procedure in the uterus. For many patients, this option allows the process to occur in a private setting, though it requires the ability to manage symptoms at home and recognize when to seek medical support.
Follow-up is an important part of care to confirm that the abortion is complete and that there are no complications. A urine pregnancy test is provided to confirm the success of the pill procedure. Instructions for follow-up and when to contact the clinic for concerns are provided at your appointment.
Please use this calculator before selecting your options from the appointment form below. Note: Seeing a trained medical professional is the only way to accurately determine the length of your pregnancy and what options are available.
At Women’s Choice Health Care Clinic of Colorado, we’re dedicated to empowering women to make informed choices regarding their reproductive health. Offering safe and legal abortion services for first, second and third trimesters. Our female OB/GYN trained physician has 27 years experience and offers unwavering support throughout your journey. We recognize that reproductive health decisions are deeply personal, which is why we provide compassionate, non-judgmental care to all our patients.
Rarely, patients will have cramping and bleeding after taking the first medication on Day 1. Typically, the bleeding will start a few hours hours after taking the second set of pills taken after 24 hours. Bleeding may be heavier than a normal period for several hours. The irregular light bleeding may persist for several weeks following this`. A completely normal menstrual period may return between 1- 3 months. If you have received a prescription for oral contraceptives, it is recommended that you begin these after you pass the pregnancy. This will assist in regulating your cycle as well as prevent pregnancy.
The cramping pain is like a menstrual period. This is your uterus contracting to expel the pregnancy tissue. It will be most intense a few hours after the second medication is taken. After the tissue has passed, the cramping should improve. Ibuprofen 800 mg every 8 hours is recommended.
Some patients suffer from severe nausea due to pregnancy and others may develop nausea from the abortion medications. A prescription for Zofran will be provided at your visit upon request. Take as prescribed.
If you suffer from any of the symptoms relating to pregnancy (such as breast tenderness, nausea, heightened sense of smell etc.), it can take up to 2 weeks for these to resolve. After 2 weeks, if the pregnancy symptoms do not resolve or there is NO bleeding, please call and come into the office for an evaluation. It is always recommended that you bring a driver with you in the event a procedure (D and C) is recommended. This is not mandatory, but IV sedation will not be administered without a driver. The procedure is well tolerated using local anesthesia, which numbs the cervix (mouth to the uterus) as well as the lower 2/3 of the uterus.
Pregnancy tests remain positive for several weeks. A first-morning urine test at 4 weeks is recommended. If positive, contact the office for guidance
Notify the office if any of the symptoms listed below develop. If an infection is detected early it will be easier to treat.
In cases of a true emergency, you should go to the nearest hospital. You may share our contact information with the treating physician if they request additional medical information. Emergency medical providers are expected to provide appropriate care based on your medical condition.
Take charge of your reproductive health with Women’s Choice Health Care Clinic of Colorado—safe, effective, and welcoming to women of all ages. We offer financial aid to our patients. Schedule your appointment today.