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Is an Online Abortion or At-Home Abortion Safe?

An Online Abortion or at-home abortion are both types of a medical abortion. If you’re looking into a medical abortion as a pregnancy option, you should be aware of several side effects and health risks before using this method.

What Is a Medical Abortion?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, medical abortion is the termination of pregnancy via a prescribed medication regimen. The two medications most often used in a medical abortion are Mifepristone and Misoprostol.

  • Mifepristone acts by blocking progesterone (a hormone necessary in pregnancy). It thins the uterine walls, and halts the growth of the pregnancy.
  • Misoprostol acts by inducing contractions to push the pregnancy tissue out, emptying the contents of the uterus.

What Are the Potential Risks of a Medical Abortion?

As with any medication, one should be aware of side effects and risks before use. The Cleveland Clinic states some side effects are:

  • Heavy cramping
  • Heavy bleeding with blood clots
  • Low fever
  • Chills
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Diarrhea

The risks of a medical abortion are:

  • Incomplete abortion
  • Excessive bleeding that doesn’t subside
  • Infection
  • Fever
  • Diarrhea and digestive pain
  • Allergic reactions caused by medications used

Who Shouldn’t Have a Medical Abortion?

The Mayo Clinic warns those with the following conditions are not recommended to have a medical abortion:

  • Those too far into pregnancy
  • Those with an IUD
  • Individuals who might have an ectopic pregnancy
  • Those with specific medical disorders such as bleeding, heart, blood vessel, liver, kidney, lung or seizure conditions or diseases
  • Those that take blood thinners and/or steroid medications
  • Individuals who cannot return for follow-up or emergency care
  • Those who have allergies to medications used

Having a full physical and giving a complete health history proves vital in understanding if this is a safe choice for your health.

What Now?

Discussing these side effects, risks, and any other concerns you may have with a trusted provider or pregnancy consultant is essential in understanding what options are right for you.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us if you would like to receive answers to questions or speak with someone regarding your options. We are happy to provide a free, confidential, same-day appointment at your convenience.

Allow us to serve you and give you the peace of mind you seek.

Reviewed by Patricia Kuenzi, APN-CNP, MSN, ANP, PNP.

The information provided here is general in nature.  It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center.  If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention.  Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.