What is a Chemical Abortion, How does it Work, and What do I Need to Know About the Process?

When it comes to chemical abortion, you may have some questions. What is a chemical abortion, how does it work, and what do I need to know about the process? Alight wants to see you thrive, which is why we're here to provide trusted answers so you can make informed decisions.

How does a chemical abortion work?

Mifepristone, otherwise known as the first pill in a chemical abortion or RU-486, works by interrupting progesterone, a necessary hormone for pregnancy to continue. Misoprostol, its counterpart, is the second pill in a chemical abortion. This pill induces the abortion, causing the woman's uterus to empty and expel the fetus.

When can I get a chemical abortion?

According to the FDA, mifepristone can be used in the first 10 weeks of gestation. Some suggest that chemical abortion can be used up until 12 weeks of gestation, but beyond that point you would only be eligible for a surgical abortion.

What are my rights in a chemical abortion?

Before having a chemical abortion, you should know your rights. This includes the right to change your mind. You should never feel pressured into an abortion decision. Even if you've taken the first pill, mifepristone, you can attempt to reverse the chemical abortion via the Abortion Pill Reversal which administers progesterone to save the pregnancy. It's important to know that this option is available to you in case you begin to feel unsure of your decision.

For more information about the Abortion Pill Reversal, click here to read our blog post Can I Continue my Pregnancy After Taking the Abortion Pill.

What do I need to know before having a chemical abortion?

To ensure your health and safety, it is a good idea to have an obstetrical ultrasound performed before having a chemical abortion. In New York State, it is not legally required for you to have an ultrasound. However, an ultrasound will help confirm the pregnancy, determine the viability of the pregnancy, and rule out ectopic pregnancy, all of which the FDA encourages providers to do. To learn why these three things are important, check out our article, Why Would I Get an Ultrasound if I Want an Abortion?

Recently, the Ethics and Public Policy Center released the largest known study on chemical abortion. The study revealed new data regarding the abortion pill and its effect on women, challenging the FDA's claim that mifepristone and misoprostol are "safe and effective". While this study is new, it is worth looking into, prior to a chemical abortion, to understand the risks that may be involved for women.

At Alight, we know that making pregnancy decisions can be really difficult. But we want you to know that you never have to make this decision alone. We are always here to offer options, answers, and support, especially when you need it most.

If you have any more questions about abortion or pregnancy decisions, please contact us:

• You can now text us, anytime! 518-855-9158

• Website: alightpc.org

• Location: 199 Fairview Ave., Hudson, NY

• Call: 518-822-9008

Remember, we are here for you, no matter what you decide.

References

Abortion Pill Rescue Network. (n.d.). Abortion Pill Reversal. Abortion Pill Rescue Network. Retrieved July 1, 2025, from https://aprnworldwide.com/abortion-pill-reversal

Allen, R., & O'Brien, B. (2009, Summer). Uses of Misoprostol in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Reviews in Obstetrics & Gynecology, 2(3), 159-68. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2760893/

Largest-Ever Study of Abortion Pill Reveals Shocking Number of Adverse Events - Ethics & Public Policy Center. (2025, April 28). Ethics and Public Policy Center (EPPC). Retrieved July 1, 2025, from https://eppc.org/news/largest-ever-study-of-abortion-pill-reveals-shocking-number-of-adverse-events/

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2025, February 11). Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. FDA. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation