Is The Abortion Pill Safe? | Cost-Free Consultations in Sioux City and Le Mars, IA

We want to dive into a discussion around the safety of the abortion pill because we believe women deserve truthful information.

You may have heard the claim, “The Abortion Pill is safer than Tylenol.” That statement has appeared in media reports, blogs, and even in legal settings. But just because something is widely repeated doesn’t mean it's medically accurate. In fact, that claim has never been proven.

Comparing these two medications side-by-side is problematic. Mifepristone and Tylenol serve completely different purposes and affect the body in different ways, making direct safety comparisons misleading. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers such comparisons “false, lacking in fair balance, or otherwise misleading.” [1]

Rather than focus on Tylenol, let’s look specifically at what the abortion pill is, how it works, and what risks women should know.

What Is the “Abortion Pill”?

The abortion pill is actually a combination of two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol. The FDA has approved this regimen for ending a pregnancy through 10 weeks gestation.

Here’s how it works:

• Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, which is essential for maintaining a pregnancy.

• Misoprostol, taken 24-48 hours later, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue.

The American College of OB/GYNs (ACOG) considers medication abortion generally safe under medical supervision [2], but it’s important to recognize that any medical procedure carries risks, and women deserve full understanding of those risks.

Known Risks and Side Effects 

Mifepristone is regulated under the FDA’s Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program. REMS restrictions are typically reserved for medications with potential for serious complications. Over the years, some of these safety protocols have been relaxed due to evolving guidance, political debate, and concerns about access.

According to the FDA label, potential complications and side effects include:

• Serious risks: infection, sepsis, heavy or prolonged uterine bleeding

• Common side effects: nausea, weakness, fever/chills, vomiting, headache, diarrhea, dizziness

Additionally, mifepristone should not be used for an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy that occurs outside the uterus), as the medication will not resolve it and can delay diagnosis of a medical emergency.[3]

What the Data Shows

While the abortion pill is widely prescribed, some researchers have raised concerns about underreported complications. A recent study by the Ethics and Public Policy Center analyzed insurance claims from over 865,000 women who used the abortion pill. Their findings suggested that more than 10.9% experienced a serious adverse event, which is far higher than the rate listed on the FDA label. [4]

This raises valid questions about whether women are being fully informed about possible outcomes before taking the medication.

What Should You Consider?

If you are pregnant and exploring your options, here are a few important steps to take before making a decision:

• Confirm your pregnancy with a lab-grade test and ultrasound

• Make sure your pregnancy is in your uterus. An ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency and cannot be treated with the abortion pill

• Have a support plan in case of complications — don’t go through this alone

• Do not use foreign or unregulated sources of abortion medication, as quality and safety cannot be guaranteed

At Her Health Women’s Center, we can provide a pregnancy test, ultrasound, and confidential options counseling all at no cost to you. Our evidence-based medical education empowers you to make an informed decision. While we do not provide or refer for abortions, we are committed to caring for you without pressure or judgment.

Contact us by texting or calling 712-224-2000 or schedule an appointment with us today.

Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified medical provider regarding your specific health needs.

Citations:

1. U.S. FDA: Prescription Drug Advertising Guidelines – 21 CFR §202.1

2. Medication Abortion Up to 70 Days of Gestation | ACOG

3. FDA Information on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy

4. Ethics & Public Policy Center, The Abortion Pill Harms Women: Insurance Data Reveals One in Ten Patients Experiences a Serious Adverse Event