While the abortion process is designed to be permanent, there is a protocol that allows women who have changed their minds to attempt to save the pregnancy. It’s called Abortion Pill Reversal (APR), and is often able to counteract the effects of the first drug—mifepristone—and allow a pregnancy to continue.
Keep reading to learn more about how abortion pill reversal works. If you’ve taken the first abortion pill and regret your decision, contact the Abortion Pill Reversal Helpline, available 24/7, to get information right away.
How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
To understand how abortion pill reversal works, you first need to know how the abortion pill ends a pregnancy.
A medication (chemical) abortion typically involves two drugs. The first, mifepristone, blocks a hormone called progesterone, which is necessary for sustaining pregnancy. Without progesterone, the uterine lining breaks down, and the pregnancy can no longer continue.
The second drug, misoprostol, is taken later and causes uterine contractions to empty the uterus. Once misoprostol is taken, reversal is no longer possible.
What Is Abortion Pill Reversal?
Abortion Pill Reversal works by giving your body additional progesterone to try to override the effects of Mifepristone. Progesterone has been safely used in pregnancy for decades to help prevent miscarriage and support early pregnancy health.
Timing is critical—the sooner treatment begins, and especially before taking misoprostol, the more likely it is to be effective.
Research and observational data suggest that APR has helped between 64% and 68% of women successfully continue their pregnancies when they started within 24–72 hours of taking mifepristone.
Is Abortion Pill Reversal Safe?
Progesterone has been used safely for more than 50 years in obstetric care. Some women experience mild side effects such as sleepiness, dizziness, or bloating, but these are generally temporary.
It’s essential to consult with a medical professional about your individual situation before starting APR. They can review your health history and provide support during the process.
What to Do Next
If you’ve only taken the first abortion drug and wish to continue your pregnancy, act quickly. You can call the Abortion Pill Reversal Helpline at 877-558-0333 or start a chat on their website to connect with a provider right away.
If you haven’t yet taken any abortion drugs but are still considering options for an unplanned pregnancy, Pathways Pregnancy Resource Center provides free pregnancy testing and ultrasounds, as well as confidential consultations, so you can make an informed decision about your next step.
We also offer support for any women who may struggle with difficult emotions in the aftermath of an abortion.
Schedule your free appointment today.