How Do Abortion Pills Work?

Medical abortion, commonly known as the abortion pill, is a safe and effective way to end an early pregnancy using medication. It involves taking two different medications: mifepristone and misoprostol, which work together to complete the abortion process.

Step 1: Mifepristone (Stopping the Pregnancy)

The first medication, mifepristone, is taken orally and works by blocking progesterone, a hormone needed for pregnancy to continue. Without progesterone, the lining of the uterus breaks down, and the pregnancy stops developing.

After taking mifepristone:

• Most people feel normal and do not experience immediate effects.
• Some may have light spotting or mild cramping.

Step 2: Misoprostol (Expelling the Pregnancy)

The second medication, misoprostol, is taken 24-48 hours after mifepristone and helps the uterus contract to expel the pregnancy.

Misoprostol can be taken by placing 4 small tablets in the sides of your cheeks and leaving them there for 30 minutes. Misoprostol is absorbed through the lining of your mouth. After 30 minutes you swallow the remainder to the tablets with a sip of water.

• Cramping and bleeding usually start within 1 to 4 hours.
• You should bleed more than your normal 1st day period in the 24hrs following Step 2 (Misoprostol).
• The heaviest bleeding occurs in the first 24hrs and you can have inconsistent bleeding and spotting for up to 4 weeks.

How Effective Is Medical Abortion?

• Up to 9 weeks (63 days) gestation, medical abortion is 98-99% effective.
• If the abortion is not fully complete, additional medication or a minor procedure (D&C) may be needed.

Final Thoughts

Medical abortion is a safe and effective option for ending an early pregnancy. Understanding how the pills work and what to expect can help people feel more prepared and in control of their healthcare choices.

The information provided on this website by Aunty Jane in any format or medium, are for general information purposes only and are not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. The information made available by Aunty Jane do not provide personalised medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. To the extent permitted by law, Aunty Jane disclaims all liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information provided. For specific medical concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2020). Medication abortion up to 70 days of gestation: Practice bulletin No. 225. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 136(4), e31-e47. https://doi.org/10.1097/AOG.0000000000004082
2. World Health Organization. (2022). Abortion care guideline.https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240039483
3. Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. (2023). Abortion care: Clinical guidelines. https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/abortion-care
4. Healthdirect Australia. (2023). Medical abortion: What to expect. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medical-abortion