Finding out the abortion pill didn’t work can feel like the ground just shifted under your feet.
Many women have been through this before, and there are safe, supportive paths forward.
If you want to talk to someone who understands what you’re going through, our adoption specialists are available 24/7. Connect with an adoption specialist today.
When the Abortion Pill Doesn’t Work: What That Really Means
When people say the abortion pill didn’t work, it means the pregnancy is still continuing even after taking the medication as instructed.
The abortion pill (a two-step process using mifepristone followed by misoprostol) is highly effective, but it does not work 100% of the time.
There are several reasons why the abortion pill might fail:
- Gestational age: The pill is most effective in the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. Later use has a higher chance of failure.
- Dosage and timing: Not taking the medications at the correct intervals may reduce effectiveness.
- Absorption issues: If vomiting or diarrhea occurs soon after taking the medication, your body may not absorb the full dose.
- Individual variation: Everybody responds differently to medications. In some cases, the pregnancy simply continues despite following all instructions.
If the abortion pill doesn’t work, this is not your fault. It does not mean you did something wrong—it simply means your body responded differently.
How to Know If the Abortion Pill Didn’t Work
The abortion pill process usually involves two medications. For most women, it works as expected, but sometimes the pregnancy continues.
This does not mean you did anything wrong—sometimes the medication simply doesn’t work as intended.
Signs the abortion pill didn’t work may include:
- Pregnancy symptoms continuing or returning
- A pregnancy test that stays positive 1–2 weeks later
- Lack of significant bleeding after the second pill
If you notice these signs, reach out to a healthcare provider to confirm whether the pregnancy is continuing.
Medical Complications from Incomplete Medication Abortion
When the abortion pill doesn’t work completely, some tissue may remain in the uterus. This can cause complications such as:
- Infection: Fever, chills, unusual discharge, or worsening pain may indicate retained tissue.
- Heavy bleeding: If your uterus can’t contract fully, bleeding may become dangerous.
Doctors manage these situations regularly and can provide safe, effective care.
When it Becomes a Medical Emergency
Go to the emergency room immediately if you have
- Heavy bleeding that soaks through two heavy pads every hour for two hours straight
- Severe abdominal pain that isn’t helped by ibuprofen
- Fever over 100.4°F with chills
- Dizziness, fainting, or feeling like you might pass out
Does the Abortion Pill Hurt the Baby If the Pregnancy Continues?
One of the biggest questions women ask is whether the abortion pill can cause birth defects if the pregnancy continues.
Research shows that taking the abortion pill early in pregnancy usually does not cause developmental issues.
Doctors may recommend extra monitoring, such as additional ultrasounds, just to ensure everything is progressing normally.
Many women have continued pregnancies after a failed abortion pill and delivered healthy babies.
Getting Medical Care When It’s Complicated
Even in states with abortion restrictions, you cannot be punished for needing medical care after attempting a medication abortion.
- Your medical information is private—providers cannot share it without your permission.
- Emergency rooms and urgent care centers must treat you, regardless of abortion laws.
- You will not get in legal trouble for explaining what medications you took.
Your Options If the Abortion Pill Fails
Once your immediate medical needs are taken care of, you’ll have time to consider your next step:
- Surgical abortion (if still available based on timing and state laws)
- Continuing the pregnancy and parenting
- Placing your baby for adoption
Each option comes with its own challenges and support systems. Take the time you need to make the choice that feels right for you.
Why Some Women Choose Adoption When the Abortion Pill Doesn’t Work
Some women find peace of mind in exploring adoption when the abortion pill doesn’t work. Learning about adoption does not lock you into any decision—it simply gives you more control over what happens next.
Benefits of adoption include:
- Choosing your baby’s future: Handpick the adoptive family that feels right to you.
- Ongoing contact: Most adoptions today allow you to stay in contact with the adoptive family with photos, updates, or even visits if you choose.
- Financial support: Medical, legal, and living expenses are covered by the adoptive family in accordance with your state’s laws so you can focus on your health.
- 24/7 counseling: Counselors experienced with unexpected pregnancies walk beside you every step of the way.
Adoption is a way to take back control when everything feels out of control.
A Better Future for Your Baby — and Time for You to Heal
It’s normal to feel like everything just became more complicated. But even if the abortion pill didn’t work, you are not out of options. You still have the power to choose what happens next.
Adoption can give your baby the chance at a safe, loving life while giving you the freedom to move forward with yours — in your own time and on your own terms.
Many women find peace in knowing their child is cared for and loved, while they are able to heal, grow, and continue pursuing their own goals.
If you’re wondering what this path could look like for you, call our free, confidential hotline today at 1-800-236-7846-.
Take Back Control of Your Future
You don’t have to go through this alone. Our adoption specialists are available 24/7 to:
- Answer questions about what to do if the abortion pill doesn’t work
- Connect you with medical resources if you’re unsure where to turn
- Explain how adoption works and help you explore it at your own pace
Call us now at 1-800-236-7846 or fill out our form to get free, confidential support. You deserve compassion, understanding, and a safe place to make the decision that feels right for you.
