Medical Abortion Safety Companion

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Comprehensive Medical Abortion Guide

1. Pharmacology

Mifepristone: Progesterone receptor antagonist (200mg oral dose) that blocks progesterone needed to maintain pregnancy.

Misoprostol: Prostaglandin analogue (800mcg buccal/vaginal) that causes uterine contractions and cervical softening.

2. Mechanism of Action

  1. Mifepristone binds to progesterone receptors → decidual necrosis
  2. Misoprostol stimulates uterine contractions → expulsion of pregnancy tissue
  3. Cervical softening allows passage of tissue

3. Expected Timeline

4. Safety Monitoring

Seek Immediate Medical Care If:

  • Soaking >2 maxi pads/hour for 2+ hours
  • Fever >100.4°F (38°C) for >24 hours
  • Severe pain unrelieved by medication
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
  • Persistent symptoms after 2 weeks

5. Aftercare Protocol

Frequently Asked Questions

How effective is medical abortion?

Medical abortion is 95-98% effective for pregnancies up to 9 weeks gestation when using the combined mifepristone-misoprostol regimen. Effectiveness decreases slightly with advancing gestational age. The misoprostol-only regimen is about 85% effective.

What are normal side effects?

Common expected effects include:

  • Heavy bleeding with clots (typically 1-2 days)
  • Strong uterine cramping
  • Nausea/vomiting (30-50% of cases)
  • Diarrhea (20-30%)
  • Fever/chills (usually temporary)
  • Fatigue
When should I worry about bleeding?

Seek medical attention if:

  • Soaking >2 maxi pads per hour for 2+ consecutive hours
  • Passing clots larger than a lemon for several hours
  • Feeling dizzy/lightheaded (signs of anemia)
  • No bleeding after taking misoprostol (may indicate failed abortion)
Can I use medical abortion if I'm Rh negative?

Yes, but you should receive Rh immunoglobulin (RhoGAM) within 72 hours of the abortion if you're Rh negative, unless the father is also Rh negative. This prevents sensitization in future pregnancies.

How will I know if it worked?

Signs of successful abortion include:

  • Heavy bleeding with clots after misoprostol
  • Reduction in pregnancy symptoms (nausea, breast tenderness)
  • Follow-up confirmation (ultrasound or pregnancy test 2-3 weeks later)

About 2-5% of cases require additional treatment.

Trusted Online Resources

Global Organizations

African Resources

Support Networks

Emergency Contacts & Helplines

Kenyan Services

  • Marie Stopes Kenya: 0800 720 008 (Toll-free)
  • Nairobi Women's Hospital: +254 703 027 000
  • FIDA Kenya (Legal Aid): +254 20 2711510
  • Kenya Medical Association: +254 20 2726309

Emergency Numbers

  • Medical Emergency: 999 or 112
  • Poison Control: +254 20 2717070
  • Mental Health Support: +254 739 935 333 (Niskize)
  • Gender Violence Hotline: 1195

Important Notice

This information is provided for educational purposes only. In case of medical emergency, please contact local emergency services immediately. The providers listed are independent organizations not affiliated with this tool.

AI Medical Companion

Hello, I'm your medical abortion safety assistant. I can provide information about:

  • Medication protocols and timing
  • What to expect during the process
  • Safety monitoring and warning signs
  • Aftercare and recovery
  • Contraception options after abortion

Please note: I can't provide personal medical advice or diagnose complications. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical concerns.

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