Everyone’s abortion feels different.

But here are some things to expect when considering an abortion with pills to end an early pregnancy.

There are two medications often used together for a safe abortion – mifepristone and misoprostol.

There’s decades of research and experience showing how safe and effective these pills are.

It’s also possible to have a safe abortion with misoprostol alone.

If you are taking mifepristone, you might not feel much at first.

Most people start to experience cramps and bleeding after taking the misoprostol pills.

Some have light cramping, while for others it’s very intense.

Most people are somewhere in the middle.

Cramping is a common sign that your uterus is contracting, and the medication is working.

You can start taking ibuprofen before the cramps begin, even before you take the misoprostol.

A heating pad or hot water bottle can also help relieve cramps.

The heaviest bleeding will likely start four to six hours after taking the first round of misoprostol, and you might pass some large clots.

Bleeding usually slows down within 24 hours, but it’s normal to have continued light bleeding for a few weeks.

You might have nausea, diarrhea, fever, or headaches—these can be temporary side effects of the medication.

Afterwards, you should start feeling better and better each day.

If you start to feel sicker, then you should seek medical attention. 

For more information on abortion with pills, talk to a health provider or go to HowToUseAbortionPill.org.