How long does the process of medication abortion take?
EC is taken in two doses, 12 hours apart. Progestin-only EC can also be taken in one dose. Side effects associated with EC generally subside within 48 hours. EC affects the timing of the menstrual cycle in 10-15 percent of women. Changes in the menstrual cycle are seen with both combination and progestin-only EC. If the next menstrual cycle is more than one week late, a woman should visit her clinician for a pregnancy test (von Hertzen et al., 2002; Van Look & Stewart, 1998). It begins immediately after taking mifepristone or methotrexate. Some women may begin spotting before taking the misoprostol, the second medication. For most, the bleeding and cramping associated with medication abortion begin after taking it. More than 50 percent of women who use mifepristone abort within four five hours after taking the misoprostol. Heavy bleeding may continue for about 13 days. Spotting can last for a few weeks. About 92 percent of mifepristone abortions are completed within a week.
