A quick guide to taking abortion pills
- Sonia
- Jun 12
- 3 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
Access to safe, effective abortion care is a fundamental part of reproductive health. Last week, we discussed the difference between self-managed abortions and in-clinic abortions. For many people, using abortion pills at home is a private, accessible, and safe option—especially in the early stages of pregnancy. If you decide to self-manage, this guide provides clear, medically accurate information and is effective for pregnancies up to 13 weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period.
Abortion with pills is also effective for pregnancies 13 weeks and beyond, but requires a different pill regimen and often has other considerations. We highly recommend connecting with one of our doulas or your provider if you are further along in your pregnancy.
Medication abortion typically involves two pills:
Mifepristone: Blocks the hormone progesterone, which is needed for the pregnancy to continue.
Misoprostol: Helps the cervix relax and the uterus contract to expel the pregnancy.
There are two regimens for the abortion pills, one which combines Mifepristone and Misoprostol, and one that uses Misoprostol only. The combination of Mifepristone and Misoprostol is most effective (95%), but Misoprostol alone (85%) can be used if that is all that is available to you.
Steps to taking abortion pills:
Step 1: Confirm Your Pregnancy
Before taking any medication, confirm your pregnancy and determine how far along you are. You can do this with a home pregnancy test and/or an ultrasound.
Step 2: Get the Medication from a Trusted Source
This could be a doctor, clinic, or a reputable online pharmacy. Be wary of unverified or illegal sources. Community-based networks, feminist collectives, and digital support services such as Rouge Doulas can also help guide you to safe sources, whether formal or informal.
Step 3: Understand the Dosage
The typical protocol for pregnancies up to 12 weeks when taking abortion pills:
Day 1: Take 200mg of Mifepristone orally.
24 to 48 hours later: Take 800mcg of Misoprostol (4 tablets), either:
Buccally: Between your cheek and gum for 30 minutes, then swallow the
remnants. This is the gentlest way to take misoprostol.
Sublingually: Set the pills under your tongue for 30 minutes and swallow the
remnants. This provides a more intense rush of the medicine into your
bloodstream.
Vaginally: Insert the tablets deep into the vagina. This is the most direct way to take misoprostol. Please note - Misoprostol can be detected in the vagina for days after insertion. If you live in a legally restricted area, take the pills buccally or sublingually.
Follow-up doses of Misoprostol may be needed depending on how your body responds. We generally recommend having 12 Misoprostol pills on hand just in case. Your provider or doula can help guide you if you need support or have questions during this time.
Step 4: Prepare for the Experience
Have on hand:
Ibuprofen or Anti-Nausea medication
Heating Pad or other comfort Items
Plenty of water and nourishing food
You may experience:
Cramping and bleeding (it may be heavier than your typical period)
Nausea, fever, chills, diarrhea, or vomiting
Bleeding may start after Misoprostol and last several days to weeks
Plan to rest for a day or two. Use pads (not tampons) to monitor bleeding, and have a support person nearby if possible.
Step 5: Monitor Your Symptoms
While side effects are normal, seek medical help immediately if you experience:
Bleeding through 2 or more pads per hour for 2+ hours
Fever over 102°F (38.9°C) lasting more than 24 hours
Foul-smelling discharge or signs of infection
Severe pain not relieved by medication
These could be signs of complications, and prompt care is essential. If you are in a legally restricted area, you do not need to disclose that you are having an abortion. Please call your doula or trusted support for guidance.
For a more in-depth guide, please check out 'How to Use Abortion Pills' on our website.
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