Every decision-making process is unique for those individuals who make the painful discovery of an unexpected pregnancy. Committing to one of three options (abortion, adoption, or parenting) can be difficult, and each decision can inspire many emotions. Not everyone deals with complex or conflicting feelings about their pregnancy options. But the truth is, many women do. It’s possible for an individual to take the first step in the abortion pill process, then experience second thoughts.
Are you having regrets after taking the first medication of the 2-drug medical abortion regimen? Avenue Women’s Center understands that a lot of emotions can go into an unexpected pregnancy decision, and we offer women a safe, private environment to discuss their situations. You may have questions about the abortion pill and what your alternatives may be if you change your mind. Our expert pregnancy consultants can supply you with reliable information about each option available to you at this stage of your journey.
Learn more about Avenue! The compassionate staff at our centers is here to listen to your unique story and provide support to meet your individual needs.
How Does It Work?
Let’s begin by reviewing how a medical abortion (aka, “the abortion pill”) works. The full process involves taking two medications. The first is called mifepristone. This medication prevents the continued development of the pregnancy. The second pill, misoprostol, is generally taken 1-2 days later. It causes the uterus to contract and empty its contents (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)).
The first medication of the abortion pill process, mifepristone, stops the development of the pregnancy by blocking a hormone called progesterone, which plays an important role in the healthy growth of the pregnancy (Yale Medicine). The typical process behind the abortion pill reversal is to prescribe progesterone to counter the effects of mifepristone. The abortion pill reversal can only be effective if the second medication of the medical abortion process (misoprostol) has not been taken yet. Even then, a person who’s considering the abortion pill reversal would have limited time to make her decision before the procedure would be rendered ineffective (American Pregnancy Association (APA)).
Is It Safe?
Opinions about the safety and effectiveness of the abortion pill reversal are mixed. According to the American Pregnancy Association, “Progesterone, used in the reversal process, has been safely used in pregnancy for more than 50 years.” There is no evidence of a link between the abortion pill reversal and birth defects. On the other hand, studies that have tested the effectiveness of this procedure are limited, and the abortion pill reversal is not currently FDA approved. Some organizations that oppose the abortion pill reversal argue that existing studies are flawed, and that progesterone can be harmful to the body if it is not administered correctly (APA).
A Final Word
Subjects like medical abortion and the abortion pill reversal can be extremely challenging to navigate. These matters are understandably sensitive and surrounded by controversy. In the middle of all this debate, it’s critical that we (as individuals and as a nation) put women’s health and safety first. This means acknowledging the difficulty of the decision-making process for those who struggle with mixed emotions or who feel coerced. It means promoting truthful information regardless of personal views, and respecting women’s autonomy to make their own decisions in their own time. And it means treating individuals with empathy no matter what circumstances they’re facing or which pregnancy outcome they ultimately choose.
As with any medical procedure, the abortion pill reversal comes with risks and potential benefits. It’s important to gather all the relevant medical information (ideally, from more than one reliable source). At Avenue Women’s Center, we believe in providing accurate and comprehensive facts. Our role is to help women feel empowered to make well-informed decisions. Only you can answer the question, “Is the abortion pill reversal right for me?” We’re here to listen, educate, and offer support as you process your next best steps.
Reach out to Avenue today! We provide free and confidential first-step pregnancy services at five locations in Chicagoland.
*As a limited medical clinic, Avenue Women’s Center does not provide abortion pill reversals.
_______________
References:
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2024, May). FAQs: Abortion Care. Retrieved from: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/induced-abortion
American Pregnancy Association. Abortion Pill Reversal. Retrieved from: https://americanpregnancy.org/unplanned-pregnancy/abortion-pill-reversal/
Yale Medicine. (2023, September). Medication Abortion: Your Questions Answered. Retrieved from: https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/medication-abortion-your-questions-answered
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.