Considering the Abortion Pill?

Considering the Abortion Pill?
Here's What You Should Know About the Risks and Real-World Data

If you’re thinking about using the abortion pill (also called medication abortion), you deserve clear, accurate information to make a confident, informed decision. Mifepristone, the first of two pills used in this process, has been widely promoted as safe and effective—but recent studies using real-world data suggest the story may be more complex than many women are told.

A new analysis by researchers at the Ethics and Public Policy Center looked at over 800,000 cases and found that complications may be more common than previously reported. Here’s what you should know before you decide.

1. What Is the Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill typically involves two medications:

• Mifepristone, which blocks the hormone progesterone and causes the pregnancy to detach from the uterine lining.
  
  
• Misoprostol, taken 24–48 hours later, which causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.
  
  

It’s approved for use up to 10 weeks of pregnancy and is often taken at home.

2. What Did the Study Find?
While clinical trials have shown low rates of complications, this newer study—based on insurance claims from women who actually went through the process in everyday life—found:

• 1 in 10 women (10.9%) experienced a serious medical complication within 45 days.
  
  
• The most common issues included heavy bleeding, infection, incomplete abortion, or the need for emergency surgery.
  
  
• Many of these women needed to go to the emergency room or undergo a surgical procedure afterward.
  
  
• Complication rates were higher after 2021, when the FDA removed the requirement to see a provider in person before getting the pills.
  
  

3. Why the Difference Between Studies and Real Life?
Clinical trials usually involve a small group of people who are carefully selected and closely monitored. But real life isn’t always like that. Not everyone has easy access to a doctor, or knows what to look for if something goes wrong. That’s why real-world data (like insurance records) can offer a more complete picture of what actually happens to most women.

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4. What Should You Think About Before Deciding?

• Are you sure of your pregnancy dates? The pill is only approved for up to 10 weeks, and it's less effective or riskier if you're further along.
  
  
• Do you have easy access to emergency care if needed? Most complications can be treated—but only if you're able to get help quickly.
  
  
• Are you prepared for the experience? Many women report strong cramping, heavy bleeding, and emotional effects. It’s not always as "simple" as it’s marketed.
  
  
• Are you fully informed? You have the right to know all the risks—both physical and emotional—before making your decision.
  
  

5. What Are the Alternatives?
If you're unsure about the abortion pill, know that you have other options:

• In-person support, reach out to us at Choices Pregnancy Center to get accurate and detailed information about all of your choices.
  
  
• Carrying the pregnancy and exploring parenting or adoption- are both options to consider. 

You Deserve the Full Picture
It is important that you remember your health and safety come first. If you're considering the abortion pill, make sure you’re getting balanced, detailed and sound information—not just from websites or ads, but from real-world data and qualified professionals.

Your decision is deeply personal. Knowing the risks, having support, and asking good questions will help you make the best choice for you.

If you have questions, or would like to talk with our staff contact us at 911-989-9897 or text “Choices” to our 24-hour text line: ‪‪(919) 351-9423‬.