Taking the abortion pill and then feeling unsure can be a confusing and stressful situation. Some women begin the abortion pill process and realize they want to continue their pregnancy but aren’t sure if that’s still possible.
Abortion pill reversal may be an option if action is taken quickly. While Hope Clinic for Women does not provide abortion pill reversal treatment, we can help connect you with the Abortion Pill Reversal Network and licensed medical providers who offer this treatment.
If you have taken the first abortion pill and are reconsidering, the most important step is to seek help as soon as possible.
What Is Abortion Pill Reversal?
Abortion pill reversal is a medical process that uses progesterone in an attempt to continue a pregnancy after taking mifepristone, the first abortion pill.
Progesterone is a natural hormone that helps support pregnancy. Abortion pill reversal attempts to reintroduce progesterone to support the pregnancy and counteract the effects of the first abortion pill.
Treatment typically involves progesterone given orally, by injection, or vaginally and is monitored by a licensed medical provider. The hope and goal is that high doses of progesterone will flood the blocked progesterone receptors and support the pregnancy.
Risks and Medical Considerations
Abortion pill reversal is not guaranteed to work, and outcomes vary depending on timing and individual medical factors. According to the Abortion Pill Reversal Network, the process has been effective in approximately 64–68% of pregnancies when treatment begins quickly. You can learn more about how the process works, timing, and common medical questions by reviewing this abortion pill reversal FAQ.
There are risks associated with any medical treatment. The most serious risk related to abortion pills is heavy or uncontrollable bleeding which can become life threatening. There are also medical considerations when using high-dose progesterone. Notify your medical provider if you have a peanut and/or sesame oil allergy, or if you have liver conditions.
Because of possible side effects, it is recommended that someone undergoing abortion pill reversal have support from another person.
Timing Is Critical
Abortion pill reversal can be started up to 72 hours after taking mifepristone, but the sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of continuing the pregnancy.
If someone wants to attempt abortion pill reversal:
- do not take the second abortion pill (misoprostol)
- seek medical help immediately
- schedule an ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy is still viable
Before starting the reversal process, an ultrasound is needed to confirm the pregnancy is in the uterus, a heartbeat is present, and the pregnancy has not already ended.
Immediate Help Is Available
If you have taken the first abortion pill and want to continue your pregnancy, acting quickly is important.
You can call the Abortion Pill Reversal Network at 877-558-0333 to speak with a medical professional 24/7 and be connected with a provider near you.