Before you decide to take the abortion pill, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects that may be experienced.
Are There Any Short-Term Effects of the Abortion Pill?
While the abortion pill regime is described as being very safe, a new study was released in 2025 by the Ethics & Public Policy Center (1). They analyzed 865,727 mifepristone abortions from 2017-2023, with their findings showing that 1 in 10 women experienced an adverse effect as a result of taking the abortion pill. 10.93% of women surveyed reported sepsis, infection, hemorrhaging, or another adverse event after they took the pill. Danco Laboratories markets Mifeprex as “safe and effective”, with “less than .05%” of adverse events from clinical trials. EPPC’s data shows that the figure should be at least 22 times as high. The abortion pill may be presented as a simple solution. These numbers show that real women are experiencing real complications, and many are caught off guard by the pain, bleeding, or follow-up procedures they were not expecting. You deserve to make decisions based upon complete and accurate information, and understand the potential risks.
Pain, cramping, and bleeding are the most common symptoms experienced when having a chemical abortion. Women have also reported experiencing gastrointestinal upset, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, in some cases being very extreme, causing severe dehydration requiring medical attention. Other symptoms may include fever, chills, headaches, and excessive bleeding, or hemorrhage. (2)(3)
If you have taken the abortion pills and are experiencing bleeding that soaks through two large sanitary pads in an hour, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. In some cases, the abortion pills have not worked effectively to terminate the pregnancy, in which case it is important to see a physician as soon as possible, as surgical intervention may be necessary.
Are There Any Mental And Emotional Side Effects Of The Abortion Pill?
A lot of women feel different emotions after having an abortion. Some feel relief, while some feel deep sadness. Emotional and mental side effects can be immediate or appear later as time passes. Common mental side effects include (4)(5):
- Relationship problems
- Substance abuse
- Depression and anxiety
- Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
- Complicated grief
- PTSD symptoms
- Anger
- Shame and guilt
- Sleep problems and bad dreams
- Avoiding and distracting yourself
- Feelings of hopelessness or emptiness
- Negative feelings about yourself and others
- Emotional side effects of abortion pill
Having a previous history of mental health problems or experiencing a sense of isolation may indicate a higher risk of depression when taking the abortion pill.
If you are experiencing emotions that are not typical for you, contact a medical health provider as soon as possible. The Well Pregnancy Resource Center strives to be a safe and confidential place for you to process and heal. Make an appointment today.
What Are My Options?
As with any decision, it is important to be informed and aware of all the information, side effects, and options available. It is illegal in all 50 states to be pressured or coerced into having an abortion. If you or someone you know feels threatened or pressured to have an abortion, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline (800) 799-7233 for 24/7 confidential support. Abortion is not the only option if you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy. If you would like to talk with someone about your options before you decide, The Well Pregnancy Resource Center is available to help answer your biggest questions about pregnancy, ultrasounds, options, and more. Contact us to learn more or to schedule a cost-free, confidential appointment.
Is it Too Late to Change My Mind?
If you have taken the first dose of the abortion pill, mifepristone, and you are unsure if you want to continue with the abortion process, it may not be too late to change your mind. The Well PRC is an Abortion Pill Reversal provider. Call the Abortion Pill Reversal hotline at (877) 558-0333 or visit AbortionPillReversal.com to talk with a Healthcare Professional to see if a reversal is possible for you. You are not alone, and you don’t have to make this decision on your own.
