How Reverse-Pill Treatment Works: Timeline, Mechanism & Safety Explained

Sometimes, a woman may begin a medical abortion and later change her mind after taking the first pill. If this happens, it is possible to use a procedure called abortion pill reversal, which may allow the pregnancy to continue. Many people wonder, how does abortion pill reversal work? This article will explain how reverse pill treatments function, their timeframe, how they operate within the body, and their overall safety.

This material is solely for education purposes. It is not intended to promote abortion, or even refer to these services. We are not a provider or a reference for services related to abortion.

What Is Medical Abortion?

Medical abortion is a procedure which uses two medications to stop an unborn baby. One of them is mifepristone that blocks the pregnancy hormone, progesterone. If progesterone is not present, the pregnancy can't keep going. Another medicine is misoprostol and will cause the uterus to shrink and expand the pregnant tissue.

This usually happens within 24 to 48 hours.

What Is Reverse-Pill Treatment?

Reverse-pill treatment, also known as abortion pill reversal, can be used in the event that the woman decides to change her decision after only taking the first pill - mifepristone. This is not a viable option when both pills have been consumed.

The aim of treatment is to increase the level of progesterone within your body. This is done by bringing the hormone back via the medication. In this way it is possible that Mifepristone's effects can be reversed, and pregnancy can persist.

How Does Abortion Pill Reversal Work?

Reversal is a process that involves the release of progesterone. It is a hormone that naturally occurs to help with the pregnancy. Because mifepristone inhibits progesterone, the treatment increases it to the body, in an effort to increase the effect of the original pill.

Two ways in which progesterone is dispensed:

• Orally (oral pills)

• By injection (shots)

• In some cases, vaginal inserts are employed as well.

The faster treatment can begin following the administration of mifepristone, more effective. The treatment usually begins in the first 24 to 72 hours following the first pill for abortion.

Timeline of the Reversal Process

Step 1: Mifepristone Taken

The woman is prescribed mifepristone in order to start a medical abortion. If she is unable to decide to follow the procedure, she may think about reversing the procedure.

Step 2: Decision to Reverse

If she hasn't already taken the second medication (misoprostol) it is possible that she will be eligible to start reverse treatment. You should act fast, and ideally within the first 24 hours.

Step 3: Progesterone Treatment Begins

The doctor can prescribe progesterone pills, injectables or even inserts. The course of treatment typically lasts between two weeks or until your body starts producing hormones by itself.

Step 4: Follow-Up

The regular follow-ups as well as ultrasounds are performed to assess the development of the pregnancy and confirm that the reversal procedure is in place.

Is Reverse-Pill Treatment Safe?

Progesterone, which is used for reversal of abortion pills, has been used for decades for pregnancy treatment. This is a common treatment in women who have a high risk of miscarriage, and is considered to be safe when it is prescribed correctly.

But, the scientific consensus about the reverse process can be divided. A few studies show that treatment can be effective but others argue that there's not enough solid evidence to prove it. Based on the available research that a majority of women who undergo the procedure within 24 to 48 hours are pregnant or have had pregnancies that continue to occur.

It is important to talk to an experienced medical professional to discuss the potential risks as well as the benefits and research.

What Does Norman Women’s Health Center Say About Reversal?

Although the Norman Women's Health Center provides services related to the health of women and their well-being It is important to note that this post is intended strictly for educational use and doesn't suggest or endorse any particular location, product, or any medical procedure.

If you need help or advice, talk to an experienced health professional that can provide support in accordance with your specific situation.

Conclusion

The reverse-pill procedure could provide another chance for women who have started an abortion procedure with medical assistance and then decide to change their mind. It is a method of giving progesterone in order to counteract the effect of the initial abortion pill. This process can be time sensitive and the safety of treatment is contingent on the speed at which treatment commences.

Though research continues numerous women have experienced positive results when they were treated earlier. If someone else you may know is thinking about this, it is a good idea to get prompt medical attention and be aware of the possibilities available.

FAQs About Abortion Pill Reversal

1. How can the abortion pill reverse function?

The procedure works by adding progesterone in order to counteract the effects of the first pill for abortion (mifepristone). Treatment should start in the space of a couple of hours or several days after having taken the mifepristone.

2. Are the treatments safe for the infant?

Progesterone, as it is currently researched, is safe for pregnant women however more study is required to understand the long-term consequences.

3. How do you determine the chance of success of the reverse?

According to reports, if you start at a young age (within 24 to 48 hours) the success rate is higher than 60 percent. The results will be different for each person.

4. If I want to reverse my pregnancy, can I do so if I've already had both of the pills?

No. Reversal treatments are only obtainable if the second tablet (misoprostol) is not used. When both pills have been consumed it is not an alternative.