What Are The Side Effects of Abortion Pills?

Medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) is a widely used and safe method for ending an early pregnancy. However, because the process involves inducing a miscarriage using medication, it is physically demanding on the body.

If you are considering this option or have already taken the medication, it is important to distinguish between the expected changes and complications. Understanding the abortion pills side effects will help you manage the process smoothly.

We’ll share the knowledge about what exactly happens to your body, the specific mifepristone and misoprostol side effects, and future fertility-related issues after taking abortion pills.

If you’re seeing some symptoms in your body, experiencing pain or bleeding that feels unmanageable, don’t ignore that. You should consult a reliable gynaecologist for safe, medical guidance.

What Are Abortion Pills?

Before we discuss the side effects, it is important to know exactly what you are taking.

When people say abortion pill, they are usually referring to a combination of medicines known as the MTP Kit. In India, one of the most common brands you might hear about is the Unwanted Kit.

This kit is not just one simple tablet; it relies on two specific drugs working together:

1. Mifepristone: The first pill, which blocks the hormone progesterone needed for the pregnancy to grow.

2. Misoprostol: The second set of pills (usually 4), which are taken 24 to 48 hours later to empty the uterus.

   
   

Most of the intense Mifepristone and Misoprostol side effects, like cramping and bleeding, kick in only after taking the second medicine (Misoprostol).

What Are the Immediate Side Effects of the Unwanted Kit?

When we talk about unwanted kit side effects, we are usually referring to the symptoms that occur within the first 24 to 48 hours after taking the second set of pills (Misoprostol).

These are the most common physical reactions:

1. Heavy Bleeding and Clotting

This is the most common side effect. Unlike a standard period, the bleeding will likely be heavier because your body is expelling pregnancy tissue. 

You may pass large blood clots (sometimes the size of a lemon), which is considered normal during the peak hours of the process.

2. Strong Abdominal Cramping

Mifepristone and misoprostol side effects almost always include strong cramping. Misoprostol triggers uterine contractions to push the contents out. 

The pain is often more intense than regular menstrual cramps but usually subsides once the tissue is passed.

3. Gastrointestinal Issues

Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea are very common abortion pills side effects. The medication can irritate the stomach lining. This usually resolves on its own within a day.

4. Mild Fever and Chills

You might feel shivery or run a low-grade fever immediately after taking Misoprostol. This is a known side effect of the drug and typically fades within 24 hours.

Does the Abortion Pill Affect Future Pregnancies?

This is the biggest myth surrounding medical abortion. Many women frantically search for information on the side effects of abortion pills for future pregnancies, fearing that they might become infertile.

Let’s be medically clear: There is no evidence that a safe, medical abortion affects your ability to get pregnant in the future.

Here is the breakdown regarding unwanted kit side effects in future fertility:

• Ovulation Returns Quickly: You can actually ovulate (release an egg) as soon as 10 days after the abortion. This proves your fertility returns almost immediately.

• No Scarring: Unlike surgical procedures, which carry a tiny risk of uterine scarring, pills do not involve instruments, so the uterus remains intact.

• Misoprostol Safety: There are no lingering misoprostol side effects in future pregnancies. The drug leaves your system within days and does not stay in the body to harm future babies.

  
  

The Exception: The only risk to future fertility arises if you have an untreated infection after the abortion (which is rare). This is why post-abortion checkups are vital.

When Do Side Effects Become Complications?

While pain and bleeding are expected, certain signs indicate you need emergency medical attention.

You should contact a doctor immediately if:

• Bleeding is excessive: you are soaking through two sanitary pads per hour for two consecutive hours.

• Fever persists: you have a fever higher than 100.4°F that lasts more than 24 hours after taking the pills.

• Pain is unmanageable: the cramps are severe and do not get better with painkillers or after the tissue has passed.

• Foul-smelling discharge: This could indicate an infection.

  
  

Not sure if your bleeding is normal? Book a consultation with a Pinky Promise expert to discuss your symptoms and get reassurance.

Conclusion: Knowledge is Safety

Medical termination is a significant medical event. While the abortion pills' side effects, like cramping, bleeding, and nausea, can be uncomfortable and draining, they are generally temporary and indicate the medication is working.

The most important takeaway is that these pills, when taken under guidance, do not damage your body permanently. Fears about the side effects of the abortion pill for future pregnancy are largely unfounded myths. Your fertility remains intact.

Prioritise your rest, hydration, and hygiene during this time. And remember, having a gynaecologist guide you through the process makes it safer and less stressful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long do the side effects of the abortion pill last?

The most intense side effects (heavy bleeding, cramping, nausea) usually last for the first 24 to 48 hours after taking the second pill (Misoprostol). However, lighter bleeding or spotting can continue for up to 2 to 4 weeks, which is normal.

Q: Can I get pregnant immediately after an abortion?

Yes. Since there are no long-term misoprostol side effects in future pregnancy, your ovulation cycle can restart within 10 days. If you do not want to get pregnant again, you must start using contraception immediately.

Q: Will the pills cause weight gain?

No. Unwanted kit side effects do not include weight gain. If you feel bloated, it is likely due to hormonal shifts or water retention, which will settle once your cycle returns to normal.

Q: Does the abortion pill cause breast cancer?

No. Extensive medical studies have shown no link between induced abortion and an increased risk of breast cancer. This is a common myth with no scientific backing.

Q: What if I don't bleed after taking the pills?

If you experience no bleeding within 24 hours of taking Misoprostol, the procedure may have failed, or you may have an ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the uterus). This is a medical emergency. You must see a gynaecologist immediately for an ultrasound.