Medical Abortion FAQ
1. Before the Abortion: Preparation and Necessary Conditions
Why should I not be too far from a healthcare facility?
It is recommended to be within one hour of a healthcare facility to be treated promptly in case of complications.
What should I bring for the medical abortion?
Your health insurance card for third-party payment.
Your blood type card (if you have it).
Your test results (blood test and ultrasound, if done).
2. The Medical Abortion Process
What is the success rate of a medical abortion?
This method is effective in 98% of cases, making the follow-up visit necessary.
What does 5 weeks of pregnancy correspond to?
This corresponds to an embryo of about 10-12 mm, knowing that the embryo grows by about one millimeter per day.
I took my gray pills but still haven't bled?
There may be a delay of a few hours to a few days between taking the gray pills and bleeding. This can happen, but don't worry. If you still haven't bled after 24 hours, contact me via this website.
How long will it take for me to bleed?
Bleeding can occur within minutes of taking the first two misoprostol tablets but may be delayed by a few hours to 1-2 days. Wait without worrying.
What if I don't bleed?
If you don't bleed at all or only slightly, like the start of a period, contact me via this website. We can meet earlier if necessary to check if the treatment was effective and possibly take more medication.
What if I bleed after the first pill?
This can happen. It's very positive because it means the treatment is working.
What if I am still bleeding on the day of the follow-up visit?
You can come without worry. This is a very common situation and does not interfere with the visit.
3. Pain, Bleeding, and Post-Abortion Follow-up
What is the intensity of the pain during a medical abortion?
It varies greatly depending on the size of the embryo, your medical history (especially childbirth), and your sensitivity. Do not hesitate to take the prescribed medications; there is no need to suffer.
How heavy is the bleeding?
It varies depending on the size of the embryo but is generally very heavy in the first few hours. Then, the flow decreases to resemble a period.
When should I worry about the bleeding?
Take the Exacyl tablets to reduce the flow. It is very rare to need to consult for heavy bleeding. However, if you feel dizzy or faint (which is rare), it is better to seek emergency care.
How long will I bleed?
Bleeding can last up to 10 days or more. But it will be light, like the end of a period. It can happen that the bleeding persists until the next period; it's annoying but not serious.
Can I work after a medical abortion?
Pain and bleeding can be significant. It is strongly advised not to work on the day you take misoprostol. If necessary, you can take it at home after work.
Can I stay alone after the abortion?
It is strongly recommended to be accompanied. It is a difficult time, both physically and psychologically. Having someone with you is reassuring.
4. Risks, Failures, and Special Situations
What should I do if I vomit the medication?
If you vomit the first medication within an hour of taking it, contact me via this website to let me know, and we will decide together what to do.
Can medical abortion make me sterile?
Medical abortion simulates a miscarriage. The risks are no greater than those of a spontaneous miscarriage. You should be vigilant as you can become pregnant again in the next cycle.
What should I do in case of failure?
If the pregnancy continues during the follow-up and you decide to continue it, no guarantee can be given regarding the absence of risk for the child to be born.
When should I get the vaccine?
The injection should not delay taking the medication. You can get it at any time, as soon as I give you the prescription, but no later than 48 hours after taking misoprostol.
What if I prefer not to have a vaginal ultrasound?
You can talk to me about it, and I will offer you an abdominal ultrasound. It is less effective but can be sufficient.
What if I come too early for an abortion?
If no pregnancy is visible in the uterus, I will ensure it is not an ectopic pregnancy. We will reschedule a consultation shortly to proceed as needed.
5. Contraception, Anonymity, and Administrative Aspects
What contraception should I use?
It is essential to discuss this (with your regular gynecologist or me) to avoid finding yourself in this situation again.
Is my anonymity respected?
As with any medical procedure, your anonymity is fully respected, especially towards your family.
Why do you ask for my blood type for a medical abortion?
If you are Rh-negative, it is essential to have an injection to prevent you from developing antibodies against Rh-positive, which could be harmful for a future pregnancy.
When should I start the pill again after an abortion?
I advise you to start a new pack on the first day of the period following the abortion.