A medical abortion is an effective method to end an early pregnancy at home for women. However, due to hormonal shifts during pregnancy and the termination procedure, it may lead to temporary side effects. These include nausea, vomiting, heavy vaginal bleeding, abdominal cramps, pain, mild fever, tiredness, headaches, etc. Thus, many females are in two minds when choosing abortion pills. However, the severity of side effects can be reduced and made manageable for a smooth process.

In this blog, we will talk about medical abortion symptoms and expectations, the side effects, and simple management techniques to practice at home and reduce the adversities.

What to Expect During an Abortion Pill Process?

During a medical abortion, you may take either Misoprostol pills alone or the combination medication (Mifepristone 200mg and 4 x Misoprostol 200mcg pills). The detachment of the fetus and pregnancy tissues from the uterine wall, and expelling of pregnancy parts from the uterus, triggers some side effects, including heavy bleeding and cramping. The experience is like a natural miscarriage. The symptoms are stronger in the initial few hours of using Misoprostol pills.

However, discomfort such as nausea, fatigue, and cramping may linger for a day. These symptoms are normal and part of the pregnancy termination procedure. Knowing how to respond and manage these circumstances will help you get through the abortion pill experience with greater ease and in complete awareness.

Lowering the Intensity of Medical Abortion Symptoms

Here are tips about managing the abortion pill side effects and their severity with medicines, natural therapies, and precautions:

1. Pain and Fever Management: Do’s and Don’ts

Abdominal cramps may lead to serious pain, at least in the first few hours of Misoprostol’s effect. The uterine contractions cause these cramps, and pain eventually follows. Here is how to reduce pain during an abortion pill treatment:

· You can consider over-the-counter pain medications to combat pain. One of the popular medicines in this regard is Ibuprofen. It is safe and efficient in tackling medical abortion cramps. The standard dosage is 400mg to 600mg taken orally every 6 hours.

· You can also take Paracetamol (acetaminophen) with Ibuprofen, which may even reduce fever and body ache. Do not take aspirin as it may cause heavier bleeding. The combination of both these medicines is advisable if you encounter severe pain and elevated body temperature.

· Some people already have opioid-based pain-relief medicines with them. However, these are to be used only under medical supervision. Also, they carry a risk of dependency and drowsiness, and must be avoided until advised by a healthcare professional.

2.  Soothing Cramps Naturally

Cramps in the abdomen happen because of contractions in the uterus. These contractions help the womb contents to pass easily out of the vagina. However, cramps indicate that the abortion pill is working fine. Here is how to lower the intensity of cramps naturally at home:

· A hot compress can ease cramps. So, you may apply a hot water bottle or a heating pad to the affected areas, usually the lower abdomen, back, waist, legs, etc.

· This may soothe the abdominal muscles and cramps. Place the heating pad for a few minutes at a time on the spot, and then switch to another.

· Do not exercise or make any sudden movements. Do not stress yourself physically. Relax as much as you can and make gentle and necessary movements only.

· If your pregnancy termination is already done, and bleeding has become lighter, you can look for simple stretches to reduce cramps further.

3. Minimizing Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Stomach issues can start with diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. These result from hormonal changes happening during the abortion, and many of these symptoms are a natural part of the pregnancy as well. Here is how to prevent or restrict these episodes:

· Vomiting and diarrhea may lead to water loss and cause dehydration. So, drink plenty of water, electrolyte drinks, and herbal teas. Take small sips at regular intervals rather than consuming the beverages at once in large quantities.

· Maintain at least 2 to 3 hours of interval between a meal and Misoprostol intake. Eat lightly and avoid heavy meals. A non-spicy and less oily food is preferable. Settle for food that is easily digested and does not worsen stomach issues.

· You may prevent nausea by using antiemetic medicine. Take it an hour before using Misoprostol. It will either reduce the intensity of nausea or do away with it completely. You can also try ginger tea to naturally control the tendency to vomit.

· If there is severe pain or high fever for over 24 hours, unusual or smelly vaginal discharge, and chills, then it may indicate an infection, for which seek medical attention immediately.

4. Reducing Bleeding and Maintaining Hygiene

Heavy vaginal bleeding is the norm during a pregnancy termination using abortion pills at home. The bleeding contains pregnancy portions and tissues. Thus, you can find large clots and clumps. Here are some ways to ensure the bleeding is not excessive, as well as maintain hygiene to prevent discomfort and infections:

· Using large sanitary pads over menstrual cups and tampons is the key to managing bleeding during a medical abortion. Pads also help to keep a check on the blood flow – is it normal or excessive? Does it carry any unusual discharge?

· If you soak over two or more sanitary napkins in two hours and pass clots larger than lemons, feel too weak or about to faint, then you may need professional assistance.

· Until the bleeding finishes, avoid swimming and douching. Stick to normal baths at home and shower instead. Dispose of pads properly and wear fresh clothes, and change bed linen if they get soiled. All these steps will ensure you remain safe and free from any risk of infection.

5. Combating Fatigue, Headache, and Weakness

Due to blood loss, stress related to pregnancy termination, if the decision was controversial, or simply the effort of letting the pregnancy exit from the body, may cause some exhaustion. With that comes some weakness, fatigue, and headache. Here is how to reduce the severity of these symptoms:

· Fatigue may be both physical and mental. Thus, limit movements and relax as much as possible. Drink herbal tea to relax both mind and body. Avoid things that trigger stress and take a physical toll on your body.

· Eat frequent but small meals filled with vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and fiber to help your body heal and energy levels remain better.

· To reduce headache, get some sleep when possible. Do not take up any mentally stressful tasks or drain yourself psychologically by overthinking. Meditate if possible and practice deep breathing.

Final Thoughts

It is normal to experience momentary side effects during a medical abortion. However, these are self-manageable at home with some care and precautions. The above-mentioned health tips to tackle medical abortion symptoms will surely keep you prepared if you ever want to end an early pregnancy using pills.