What Is a Medical Abortion?
A medical abortion—also called a medication abortion—uses prescribed medicines to end an early pregnancy. The standard approach involves two medications: mifepristone, which stops the pregnancy from growing, and misoprostol, which triggers cramping and bleeding so the uterus can empty.
This method offers a non-surgical option for ending a pregnancy in the first trimester. After that point, a healthcare professional may discuss procedural alternatives, sometimes called in-clinic, aspiration, or D&C abortions.
Why Someone Might Choose a Medical Abortion
The decision to end a pregnancy is personal and shaped by individual circumstances. Some people choose a medical abortion because:
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They do not want to continue the pregnancy.
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They have concerns about serious genetic or inherited conditions.
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Continuing the pregnancy could pose a medical risk.
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They are experiencing a miscarriage that hasn’t completed on its own.
Talking with a clinician who knows your health history can help you understand which options are safe for you.
When Medical Abortion Is Available
In the United States, the FDA authorizes mifepristone and misoprostol for use through 10 weeks of pregnancy, though research shows they can remain effective beyond that. The medications can be dispensed in clinics, by mail, or through certain pharmacies, depending on state regulations.
State laws govern:
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Which professionals are allowed to prescribe the medications.
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Whether telehealth is permitted.
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Whether an ultrasound or in-person visit is required.
Who Should Not Have a Medical Abortion
A medical abortion may not be appropriate for people who:
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Are later in pregnancy.
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Have allergies to the medications.
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Have an ectopic pregnancy.
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Use long-term corticosteroids.
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Have an IUD in place (it may need to be removed first).
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Have bleeding disorders, significant anemia, or chronic adrenal issues.
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Cannot access emergency medical care if needed.
How Common Are Medication Abortions?
More than half of all abortions in the U.S. are done with medication, meaning most people who end a pregnancy do so early and without surgery.
Preparing for a Medical Abortion
A clinician will typically confirm the pregnancy and gestational age, review your medical history, and explain what the process looks like. Preparations may include:
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A pregnancy test
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Blood or urine tests
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An ultrasound
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A conversation about risks, benefits, and expectations
What Happens During a Medical Abortion
Medical abortion involves taking two different prescription medicines as instructed by a clinician. After taking the second medication, many people begin to experience cramping and bleeding within a few hours. These effects are expected because they are part of how the pregnancy passes from the body.
Common experiences include:
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Heavy cramping
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Bleeding that may include clots
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Temporary fever, chills, nausea, dizziness, or diarrhea
How Long Does It Take?
Once the second medication is taken, the process often takes a few hours, though this can vary. Many people choose to rest at home during this time and have someone nearby for support.
What Does the Pain Feel Like?
Most describe the discomfort as intense menstrual cramping. Over-the-counter pain relievers and a heating pad help many people manage symptoms. A clinician can recommend what options are appropriate for pain relief.
What to Expect Afterward
Cramping and bleeding usually decrease over the first few days. Lighter bleeding may continue for several weeks. A follow-up visit or call—typically within two to five weeks—helps confirm that the pregnancy has ended.
How Long Does Bleeding Last?
Heavier bleeding generally lasts a day or two, with lighter bleeding tapering over two to three weeks. Using pads (not tampons) helps track bleeding and reduces the risk of infection.
What Happens at the Follow-Up Visit?
Your provider may:
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Review symptoms
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Order a pregnancy test
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Request lab work
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Perform or recommend an ultrasound
The goal is to verify that the medication worked completely.
Benefits of Medical Abortion
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It safely ends an early pregnancy.
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It can begin as soon as pregnancy is confirmed.
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Many people prefer the privacy and comfort of completing the process at home.
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It can feel more natural than a procedure.
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You can choose who is with you during the experience.
Risks and Possible Complications
Complications are uncommon, but may include:
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A pregnancy that does not end
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Remaining tissue that needs treatment
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Heavy or prolonged bleeding
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Allergic reactions
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Infection
There are no known long-term fertility or health risks associated with medical abortion.
Effectiveness
Using mifepristone and misoprostol together is about 98% effective in early pregnancy.
Recovery and Emotional Well-Being
Most people feel physically better within a day or two. Emotional reactions vary—relief, sadness, stress, or mixed feelings are all normal. Support from a counselor or mental health professional can be helpful.
Sex, Fertility, and Your Next Period
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It’s usually advised to avoid vaginal intercourse for about two to three weeks to reduce infection risk.
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You can become pregnant again as soon as two weeks after the abortion.
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Periods typically return within four to six weeks, though timing may vary.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
Seek medical guidance if you experience:
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No bleeding in the first day after the second medication
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Very heavy bleeding (for example, soaking multiple thick pads per hour)
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Symptoms of infection
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Severe or worsening abdominal pain
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No period after two months
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Ongoing pregnancy symptoms