South Dakota
Abortion Pill Info

The Abortion Pill is not available by mail in South Dakota. Before taking the Abortion Pill or any other medication, get information from a trusted source so that you understand how it works and the possible side effects.

Who Should not take the abortion pill (ru486):

The FDA advises that the Medication abortion pill (RU486) should NOT be taken if any one of the following circumstances apply:

• It has been more than 49 days since your last menstrual period began.
• You have an IUD, which must be removed before taking the pill.
• Your healthcare provider has told you that you have an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy outside the uterus). Note: About 2% of pregnancies are ectopic.
• You have problems with your adrenal glands (chronic adrenal failure).
• You take a medicine to thin your blood.
• You have a bleeding problem.
• You take certain steroid medications.
• You cannot return for the necessary follow-up visits (2 days and 14 days after taking RU-486).
• You cannot easily access emergency medical help, including blood transfusions and emergency resuscitation, in the 2 weeks after taking the medication abortion pill.
• You are allergic to mifepristone [RU-486], misoprostol, or medicines that contain misoprostol such as Cytotec or Arthrotec.

Adverse events and side effects of the abortion pill:

In U.S. trials of RU486/misoprostol, at least 99% of patients experienced at least one of the following medication abortion pill side effects:

• Abdominal pain (cramping) (97%)
• Nausea (67%)
• Headache (32%)
• Vomiting (34%)
• Diarrhea (23%)
• Dizziness (12%)
• Fatigue (9%)
• Back pain (9%)
• Uterine hemorrhage (7%)
• Fever (4%)
• Viral infections (4%)
• Vaginitis (4%)
• Rigors (chills/shaking)(3%)

More than one adverse event was reported for most patients. Approximately 23% of the adverse events were judged to be “severe.”

The FDA is aware of women in the United States who died from sepsis (severe illness caused by infection of the bloodstream) after medical abortion with Mifeprex and misoprostol.

Calculating the Length of Pregnancy:

Doctors calculate the length of pregnancy by counting from the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP), approximately two weeks prior to conception (fertilization). So “up to 49 days LMP” means up to 5 weeks after conception.

Understanding the details and implications of choosing the medication abortion pill is crucial for anyone considering this option. It’s important to be fully aware of the time constraints, procedure, potential side effects, and risks involved with this form of abortion. The use of RU486, coupled with misoprostol, is a significant medical decision that should be made with comprehensive knowledge and under professional medical guidance.

For those considering this option, it’s vital to consult with healthcare professionals to ensure safety and to discuss any concerns or questions you might have. It’s equally important to understand the legal and health criteria that determine eligibility for taking the medication abortion pill. Remember, this decision is not just about the immediate termination of pregnancy but also involves considering your long-term health and well-being.

If you or someone you know is facing an unplanned pregnancy and contemplating a medication abortion, consider reaching out to us for detailed information and support. Making an informed decision is essential, and it’s important to have access to all the facts and support systems available. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources and people ready to help you through this process.

We offer individual consultation and accurate information about all pregnancy options.