Abortion Pill Failure. Maryland.
The abortion pill, known medically as a medication abortion, is safe, effective, and widely used in the early stages of pregnancy. But what happens if the abortion pill doesn’t work as expected? At Metropolitan Family Planning Clinic (MFPC) in Cheverly, MD, we believe in transparency, support, and empowering our patients with the facts.
Why the Abortion Pill Might Fail
While rare, abortion pill failure can happen for a few key reasons:
- Taking the medication too late in pregnancy (beyond 10–11 weeks)
- Improper dosage or timing between mifepristone and misoprostol
- Incomplete expulsion of pregnancy tissue
- Pre-existing medical conditions that interfere with absorption
The abortion pill works in two parts: mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, and misoprostol causes cramping and bleeding to empty the uterus. But in about 2–5% of cases, the process doesn’t complete fully on its own.
What Are the Signs of Abortion Pill Failure?
It’s important to know what to watch for. You might need a follow-up if you experience:
- Little or no bleeding after taking misoprostol
- Severe cramping or pain that doesn’t improve
- Symptoms of ongoing pregnancy (nausea, breast tenderness)
- Positive pregnancy test several weeks after taking the pill
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your provider immediately. MFPC offers fast and compassionate follow-up care to confirm whether the abortion was complete and provide next steps.
Abortion Pill Failure: What Happens Next?
If the abortion pill fails, you still have safe, effective options:
- Repeat Medication: In some cases, another dose of misoprostol may complete the abortion.
- Surgical Abortion: A gentle, in-clinic procedure can remove remaining tissue and provide closure.
- Counseling & Ultrasound: Our staff offers supportive counseling and ultrasound imaging to guide your decision.
We understand how stressful this experience can be. That’s why our MFPC abortion pill services include detailed education, medication guidance, and immediate follow-up if needed.
Abortion Pill Failure: You’re Not Alone
The idea of abortion pill failure can feel isolating, but it shouldn’t. Our care team in Cheverly is trained to handle all outcomes with compassion, discretion, and expertise. We’ll ensure you receive the proper care, right away.
Want to know more about the safety of medication abortion? Read our full blog on abortion pill safety.
Need Help or Have Questions?
Don’t wait. Contact MFPC today to speak with a provider or schedule a follow-up visit.
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