Is it safe to use pills when terminating a pregnancy? Which ones should I get? How do they work? These are some of the questions asked by women seeking a safe abortion.
That's why Aya Contigo wants to help you clear up all the questions about this method of terminating an unwanted pregnancy.
We know this is an unsettling time, our team is available to help answer your questions and concerns.
Is Cytotec the Same as Misoprostol?
Cytotec is the brand name of the pills marketed by Pfizer, whose active ingredient is Misoprostol. In other words, there are other pills with the same component and with different names, according to the pharmaceutical company that manufactures them.
In any case, Misoprostol is the substance used to perform the abortiono..
Can only Misoprostol be used for safe abortion?
Some abortion clinics may combine one 200 mg Mifepristone pill and four 200 mcg Misoprostol pills or use only Misoprostol (12 pills of 200 mcg each).
The function of Mifepristone is to facilitate abortion by blocking progesterone and causing the embryo to detach from the uterine wall.
What does Misoprostol do?
This compound was created in 1973 to treat gastric and duodenal ulcers. Soon women realized that it also causes contractions in the uterus and relaxes and opens the cervix. In other words, it is used to induce expulsion.
What is the Necessary Dose of Abortion Pills?
Reliable organizations such as the World Health Organization state that one 200 mg Mifepristone tablet should be ingested and 24 to 48 hours later, four 200 mcg Misoprostol tablets should be taken.
But the procedure can also be performed with Misoprostol alone. There must be 3 doses of 4 pills of 200 mcg each, to be used every 3 hours, for 30 minutes under the tongue or between the gums and the cheeks.
How Effective are Abortion Pills?
When taken between the 9th and 10th week of pregnancy, the success rate is 93%. The pills will be more effective the earlier in gestation you administer them.
Will I Have Complications if I Use Misoprostol?
Many studies have shown that it is very safe to have a self-managed abortion at home. It is common for the medication to have side effects, which is normal. Less than 2% of people have serious complications (see below when to see a doctor).
Common symptoms that you can expect after ingesting Misoprostol include: cramping, moderate to heavy bleeding, nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, chills and mild increase in body temperature.
How Long Will I Bleed after Using Abortion Pills?
Bleeding starts within the first 24 to 48 hours after taking the pills. At first it is more abundant and then it decreases in quantity.
Although it is impossible to know exactly when the bleeding will stop, the entire process usually lasts between one and three weeks.
When to Consult a Physician
Although self-managed abortions are very safe, less than 2% of people may experience serious complications. Consult a physician if you experience the following:
If you have an allergic reaction that keeps you from breathing despite taking antihistamines.
If bleeding is so heavy that you soak more than two extra large sanitary napkins per hour, for two continuous hours.
If the pain is unbearable even after taking analgesics.
If you have a fever of 38 degrees, vomiting, diarrhea or weakness after 24 hours of taking Misoprostol.
If the bleeding smells foul or is very different from menstruation, you should also go to a health center.
If you have any questions, the Aya Contigo team is available to answer your questions 12 hours a day during the week and half a day on weekends.
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