Abortion Pill
Abortion Pill
The Abortion Pill (also known as a medical abortion) is a 2-step method for ending early pregnancies. It is currently approved by the FDA for use up to 10 weeks gestation. The first pill is called Mifepristone. It blocks the effects of progesterone, a hormone that helps the growth of a pregnancy. The second pill is called Misoprostol and is taken within 48 hours to trigger contractions to expel the embryo or fetus.
Before you take the abortion pill, meet with a nurse at Mosaic to have an ultrasound that will determine the location of the pregnancy and how far along you are. Following this medical protocol can ensure your health and safety. (We do not provide or refer for the abortion pill.)
Abortion Pill Risks
It’s important to know the potential risks of the abortion pill, including:
Excessive bleeding: The abortion pill typically causes heavy bleeding, but sometimes it can be excessive and require a blood transfusion or emergency care.
Infection: Symptoms of infection include fever, severe abdominal pain, or foul-smelling discharge. Seek help immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
Incomplete abortion: In rare cases, the abortion pill may not work. Fetal tissue may remain in the uterus, which would require additional medical treatment and maybe a procedure.
Emotional and psychological effects: Some women have emotional or psychological effects after the abortion pill, such as sadness, guilt, grief or regret.
Ectopic pregnancy: The abortion pill doesn’t treat an ectopic pregnancy (when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus). Get an ultrasound before an abortion to confirm the location of the pregnancy. Contact us to make an appointment..
A recent study showed that over 10% of women had adverse events within 6 weeks after taking the abortion pill (EPPC study, 2025). Schedule an appointment to come in and speak with a nurse.
Abortion in Virginia
In the state of Virginia:
Abortion procedures are currently legal during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy.
Abortions in the third trimester are only permitted in rare situations when the pregnancy poses a serious risk to the mother’s life.
If you are under the age of 18, Virginia law requires permission from a parent or legal guardian before you can obtain an abortion.
Approximately 15-20% of known pregnancies will end in a miscarriage, according to NIH. Having an ultrasound before an abortion is important for your health and safety. An ultrasound can reveal how far along you are and make you aware of a potential miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
Mosaic Virginia provides ultrasounds free of charge. Schedule an appointment today at one of our four locations in Northern Virginia.
Your privacy is important to us. All information you share is kept strictly confidential.