What is a Medical Abortion?

Medical abortion — often called the Abortion Pill — is a safe, non-invasive way to end an unplanned pregnancy up to 10 weeks’ gestation. It can be completed in the privacy of your own home, with ongoing support from our healthcare professionals.

Step 1 • Mifepristone

The first pill, Mifepristone, works by blocking progesterone — the hormone needed for a pregnancy to continue.Some people feel no symptoms after taking this pill.Others may experience light cramping or spotting.Most can continue with normal daily activities.

Step 2 • Misoprostol (24–72 Hours Later)

The second medication, Misoprostol, is taken 1–3 days after the first.You’ll place four tablets between your cheeks and gums and allow them to dissolve over an hour.A chalky residue may remain — this is normal and should be swallowed with water.

What to Expect After Misoprostol

Misoprostol causes your uterus to contract and begin the bleeding process.Within 30 minutes to 6 hours, you may experience cramping and bleeding, similar to a miscarriage or a heavy period.This is a good time to rest at home with a support person.Pain can be managed with paracetamol and ibuprofen as needed.

When is Medical Abortion used?

Medical abortions are available for pregnancies that can be confirmed, typically up to 10 weeks. The duration of pregnancy is commonly measured in days since the woman’s last menstrual period (LMP).

How long does the process take?​

A medical termination is similar to a misscarriage or a heavy period. The bleeding usually lasts for up to a week and you may have spotting for up to 2 weeks.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects of medical abortion, mainly caused by the second pill, include:• Cramps & bleeding • Headache • Nausea • Vomiting • Diarrhea • Fever • Chills • FatigueIn rare cases (around 5%), the medications may not effectively end the pregnancy, requiring a surgical abortion procedure. Continuing the pregnancy after taking the medications is not an option due to the risk of birth defects. While cramping and bleeding are expected, serious complications like excessive bleeding or infections can occur, although they are rare. It's important to consult a healthcare professional to fully understand the possible side effects and risks associated with medical abortion.

Who can't use the Abortion Pill?

A medical abortion may be suitable for most pregnancies up to 9 weeks but there are certain conditions that may prevent women from choosing this method. These conditions are listed below:

Not suitable for...

Women concerned about heavy bleeding during the procedure

Women seeking to minimize their involvement in the abortion process

Women desiring a quick resolution to their abortion

Women unable to return for follow-up visits

Women facing language or comprehension barriers in communication with the provider

Women without access to phone services or emergency medical treatment

Women preferring to avoid surgical abortion procedures as a backup option in case of medical method failure or incomplete abortion

Other factors that may prevent usage

Uncontrolled high blood pressure. Recent or ongoing use of certain medications that may interact with the abortion medications (such as certain anticoagulants or immunosuppressants).

Severe heart or cardiovascular, kidney, liver or respiratory disease.

Active or recent breast cancer.

Severe mental health conditions requiring immediate treatment or hospitalization. Inability to comply with the recommended follow-up care or instructions

What if I live far away?

Yes, we can still help you even if you live far away from the clinic. As long as you live within 1 hour from a hospital, we can accommodate you. Your first appointment will happen via phone consultation or in clinic visit. With most women preferring phone consultation. 

After the initial consultation and assessment, we will initiate treatment. If you have any further questions or concerns, please discuss them when making your appointment. We’re here to assist you.

Need Support?

Our team is here for you every step of the way. If you have any concerns or questions during the process, you can reach out to us directly. You’re not alone — we’re here to help.