What to Expect During Medication Abortion
Understanding normal symptoms and side effects can help you feel prepared and confident during your medication abortion.
Cramping and Pain
What's Normal
- •Cramping is expected and can be strong, especially in the first few hours after taking misoprostol
- •Pain typically feels like strong menstrual cramps
- •Cramping usually improves significantly within a few days
- •Some mild cramping may continue for 1-2 weeks
Pain Relief Options
Medication
- • Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) - 400-600mg every 6-8 hours
- • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) - 500-1000mg every 6 hours
- • Avoid aspirin (can increase bleeding)
Comfort Measures
- • Heating pad or hot water bottle on belly
- • Warm shower or bath
- • Back massage
- • Rest in a comfortable position
Bleeding
What's Normal
- •Bleeding usually starts 1-4 hours after taking misoprostol
- •Heaviest bleeding typically occurs in the first 1-2 days
- •Bleeding is often heavier than a normal period, with blood clots
- •Light bleeding or spotting can continue for 9-16 days (sometimes up to 30 days)
- •Passing blood clots (especially in the first 24 hours) is normal
What to Expect
The amount of bleeding varies from person to person. Some experience bleeding similar to a heavy period, while others have more significant bleeding. Both are normal. The gestational age can affect the amount of bleeding - earlier pregnancies typically have lighter bleeding.
Common Side Effects
These side effects usually begin within a few hours of taking misoprostol and typically resolve within 24 hours:
Digestive Symptoms
- • Nausea
- • Vomiting
- • Diarrhea
General Symptoms
- • Fever and chills (mild, lasting less than 24 hours)
- • Headache
- • Dizziness
- • Weakness or tiredness
Managing Side Effects
- •For nausea: Anti-nausea medication, ginger tea, crackers, small frequent meals
- •For diarrhea: Stay hydrated, eat bland foods (BRAT diet: bananas, rice, applesauce, toast)
- •For fever/chills: Rest, stay warm, monitor temperature
- •For tiredness: Rest as much as possible for 1-2 days
When to Seek Medical Attention
Contact a healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Heavy bleeding: Soaking through more than two maxi pads per hour for two consecutive hours
- Large clots: Passing blood clots larger than a lemon
- Severe pain: Pain not relieved by medication, rest, or heating pads
- Persistent fever: Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher that starts more than 24 hours after taking misoprostol, or lasts more than 24 hours
- Severe digestive symptoms: Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
- Signs of infection: Unusual vaginal discharge with strong odor, worsening pain
- No bleeding: No bleeding within 24 hours of taking misoprostol