The name makes it sound pretty simple: Take a pill. Get your period. Move on.
But the Missed Period Pill isn't actually a medication designed to restart a late period. It's a term sometimes used to describe the abortion pill.
If you're considering the Missed Period Pill because it feels like a quick solution, there's something worth knowing first:
A few simple steps can help you understand what's actually happening in your body before you move forward.
Have questions about the abortion pill or early pregnancy? Text with our nurses anytime at (580) 441-5611.
What Is the Missed Period Pill?
The Missed Period Pill is a term used for medication abortion, which typically involves mifepristone and misoprostol.
Despite the name, it isn't designed simply to start a late period. It's intended to end an existing pregnancy.
That means before taking the Missed Period Pill, it can help to know:
- Whether you're actually pregnant
- How far along you are
- Where the pregnancy is developing
Those details can help you understand what may apply to your specific pregnancy.
Do I Need a Pregnancy Test?
Yes. A missed period doesn't always mean you're pregnant.
Stress, illness, hormonal changes, travel, or changes in exercise and weight can all affect your cycle.
If you're considering the Missed Period Pill, confirming pregnancy is a simple first step.
Charis Center offers free pregnancy testing in Duncan, OK, so you can get an answer without relying on symptoms or timing alone.
Is a Positive Test Enough?
A positive pregnancy test tells you pregnancy hormone was detected. It doesn't tell you everything about the pregnancy itself.
For example, it can't tell you:
- How far along you are
- Where the pregnancy is developing
- Whether additional medical evaluation may be needed
That's where an ultrasound can provide information a pregnancy test can't.
Charis Center offers free limited ultrasounds following a positive pregnancy test to provide more information about your pregnancy.
Considering the Missed Period Pill or abortion? Charis Center offers a free Pre-Abortion Screening with pregnancy testing, ultrasound & personalized abortion information before you move forward.
Does the Missed Period Pill Work?
Medication abortion is highly effective during early pregnancy, but it isn't 100% effective.
In some cases, the pregnancy may continue, pregnancy tissue may remain, or additional medical care may be needed.
The abortion pill also does not treat an ectopic pregnancy, which develops outside the uterus and can become a medical emergency.
An ultrasound can provide more information about how far along you are and where the pregnancy is developing before you take abortion medication.
Is the Missed Period Pill Safe?
Like any medication, the abortion pill can come with side effects and risks.
Cramping and bleeding are expected parts of the process. Other side effects can include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Fever or chills
- Weakness
- Dizziness
Complications can include heavy bleeding, infection, or an incomplete abortion requiring additional medical care.
Timing matters too. The FDA-approved mifepristone regimen is approved for an intrauterine pregnancy through 10 weeks gestation.
Knowing how far along you are can help you understand what information applies to your pregnancy.
What If I'm Not Pregnant?
If your pregnancy test is negative, taking abortion medication won't explain why your period is late.
There are many reasons a menstrual cycle can change. If your period remains late or you're concerned about your symptoms, a healthcare provider can help you determine whether additional evaluation is needed.
What If I Am Pregnant?
It's okay. You have time to get answers.
You don't need to know exactly what you want before making an appointment. And if you're already considering the Missed Period Pill or abortion, you can still come to Charis Center first.
Your appointment can help you better understand:
- Your pregnancy & how far along you may be
- Abortion & what information may apply to your pregnancy
- What to expect if you're considering the abortion pill
- Your questions & available resources
Get Personalized Answers Before Abortion
You can find a lot of general information about the Missed Period Pill and abortion pill online. Charis Center can help you understand what applies to your pregnancy.
If you're already considering the Missed Period Pill or abortion pill, you can use your appointment to get personalized information before moving forward.
Sources
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Medication Abortion Up to 70 Days of Gestation.
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Ectopic Pregnancy.
- U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Mifepristone Information.