What to Expect When Taking the Abortion Pill in Miami

If you’re considering the abortion pill, knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and confident in your decision. Here’s a step-by-step guide on the process, timeline, and what you need to know before taking the medication.

Step 1: Confirming Eligibility

The abortion pill is FDA-approved for pregnancies up to 10 weeks (70 days) from the first day of your last period. Before taking the pill, a healthcare provider will confirm your pregnancy stage and ensure the medication is a safe option for you.

Step 2: Understanding How the Abortion Pill Works

The abortion pill is actually two medications:

• Mifepristone (taken first) blocks the hormone progesterone, stopping the pregnancy from progressing.

• Misoprostol (taken 24–48 hours later) causes the uterus to contract, leading to cramping and bleeding that expels the pregnancy.

Step 3: What to Expect After Taking the Medication

After taking misoprostol, you’ll likely experience heavy bleeding and cramping within a few hours. Some women compare it to a very heavy period or an early miscarriage. Nausea, chills, diarrhea, and fatigue are also common.

Step 4: Follow-Up Care

A follow-up appointment is usually recommended within a week or two to confirm the abortion was complete. If any pregnancy tissue remains, additional treatment may be needed.

Step 5: Recovery & What Comes Next

Most women feel physically back to normal within a few days, though it can take a few weeks for your cycle to return. If you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding (soaking two pads per hour for more than two hours), or fever, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Abortion is a personal decision, and support is available if you need guidance. If you have questions, reach out to Miami Women's Center to discuss your options in Miami.