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‍What is the abortion pill?

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The abortion pill is a safe, effective way to end an early pregnancy at home using two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol. Together, these pills stop the pregnancy from developing and help the body expel the pregnancy tissue - similar to a natural miscarriage.

In the UK, home-use abortion pills are approved for use up to 10 weeks of pregnancy and are recommended by the NHS, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), and the World Health Organization (WHO).

According to the Department of Health & Social Care, over 86% of abortions in England and Wales in 2022 were early medical abortions, with many carried out at home via telemedicine.

Also known as:

• Self-managed abortion (UK approved up to 10 weeks)
• Early medical abortion (EMA)
• At-home abortion
• Abortion pills by post
• Telemedicine abortion
  
  

When can I take the abortion pill?

If you’re considering a medication abortion at home, timing is one of the first things to understand. In the UK, abortion pills can be safely and legally used at home if you are:

• Under 10 weeks pregnant (counted from the first day of your last period)
• Medically eligible following a consultation
• Not experiencing symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy (pain on one side, dizziness, or shoulder pain)

At Top at Home, we support patients who are up to 10 weeks pregnant with remote care, clinical guidance, and next-day delivery of treatment, so you don’t need to visit a clinic in person. 

In some cases, you might need an ultrasound scan before starting treatment, especially if your last period was more than 10 weeks ago or your dates are unclear. We’ll help guide you through that if needed.

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How does the abortion pill work?

If you've decided to have a medication abortion, you might be wondering what the actual process feels like - and what each step does in your body. While everyone’s experience is slightly different, the medical process follows a clear, proven path using two pills: mifepristone and misoprostol. Here’s how they work, and what to expect.

For More Information On How to Take Abortion Pills Safely - How to Take Abortion Pills Safely

Step 1: Take One Mifepristone With Water

This first pill blocks the hormone progesterone, which is essential for maintaining pregnancy. Without progesterone, the pregnancy cannot continue.

• You swallow this pill with water.
• Most people feel completely normal afterward - though a small number might notice mild cramping or spotting.

Wait 24–48 hours

This gap gives your body time to process the first medication. You can carry on with your day as usual, but we recommend resting when possible.

Step 2: Take 4 misoprostol pills 24–48 hours later, either buccally (between your check &) or vaginally

Misoprostol helps your body complete the process by causing the uterus to contract, which leads to bleeding and cramping to pass the pregnancy. You’ll place 4 pills either:

• Between your cheek and gum (buccally), letting them dissolve for 30 minutes
• Or vaginally, based on what you’re advised

“For most people, cramping and heavy bleeding begins within 1–4 hours. This part feels like a strong period or early miscarriage.” -  Dr. Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist

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What are the side effects after taking the abortion pill?

Once you’ve taken the second pill (misoprostol), your body begins to respond typically within a few hours. This part of the process can feel intense, but it’s a sign that the medication is working. Here’s what’s common and expected:

• Cramping: This usually begins within 1 to 4 hours and feels like strong period pain or early miscarriage cramps. The most intense cramping tends to pass within a few hours.
  
  
• Bleeding: Heaviest in the first 4–6 hours, then gradually becomes lighter - like a period over the next few days.
  
  
• Other symptoms: You might experience nausea, diarrhoea, chills, or a mild fever. These are usually short-lived and manageable with rest and fluids.

Dr. Aka’s advice: "Cramping and bleeding are signs the medication is doing what it’s meant to. Taking 600–800mg of ibuprofen and using a hot water bottle can make a real difference in easing discomfort."

What helps with symptoms?

Many people say the process is manageable with rest and the right comfort tools. We recommend having these on hand:

• 800 mg ibuprofen (included in your Top at Home kit)
• Anti-nausea tablets (also included)
• A hot water bottle or heating pad
• Comfy clothes and sanitary pads
• Warm drinks or light snacks

When to contact a doctor

Side effects are expected, but there are a few signs that mean you should get medical help:

• Soaking 2 or more pads an hour for 2+ hours
• Severe pain that doesn’t respond to pain relief
• A fever over 38°C lasting longer than 24 hours

If you’re ever unsure - reach out. Our clinical team is here to support you through the entire process. Learn more from the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists – Medical Abortion

Is the abortion pill safe?

Yes, the abortion pill is very safe. It’s one of the most common and well-studied medical procedures, with a serious complication rate of just 0.31% to 0.54%. To put that in perspective:

• The abortion pill has fewer severe side effects than everyday medications like Tylenol or Advil
• It’s safer than Viagra
• And it’s significantly safer than childbirth

At Top at Home, we follow the latest clinical guidelines from the NHS and Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG). Your safety and care are our top priority, and our medical team is available to support you throughout the entire process. It's also important to know that the abortion pill:

• Does not affect future fertility
• Does not increase the risk of breast cancer
• Does not cause depression or long-term mental health problems

These are common myths, but they are not supported by scientific evidence. Trusted health organisations like the NHS and RCOG agree that medication abortion is safe and effective when used correctly.

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How effective is it?

The combination of mifepristone and misoprostol is highly effective: at 8 weeks of pregnancy or less, it works about 94–98% of the time; at 10–11 weeks, effectiveness is about 87%, but with an extra dose of misoprostol, the success rate increases to approximately 98%. That means the vast majority of people who take the abortion pill complete their abortion safely and without needing any further medical intervention.

When it comes to at-home care, the evidence is clear: Research from the NHS and international public health bodies shows that abortion pills prescribed through telemedicine (like with Top at Home) are just as safe and effective as in-person care.

In fact, the UK was one of the first countries to formally approve at-home medical abortion care during COVID-19, and studies since then have confirmed that this method is not only clinically sound, but also preferred by many for its privacy and convenience.

At Top at Home, we’ll guide you through confirming that the abortion was successful by asking you to take a pregnancy test 3–4 weeks after treatment. Testing too early can lead to a false positive, as pregnancy hormones may still be in your system. You can also expect your period to return within 4–6 weeks, this is a common sign that your body is returning to its usual cycle.

How much does it cost?

The cost of abortion pills in the UK depends on how and where you access care.

If you're eligible for NHS care, medical abortion is free and usually arranged through your GP or a local sexual health clinic. These services are safe and regulated, but they may involve longer wait times or require in-person visits.

If you're looking for faster access, more privacy, or the ability to manage your abortion entirely at home, private providers like Top at Home are an alternative. While many private clinics charge between £450 and £600, Top at Home offers full treatment and support for £399, one of the most affordable options available in the UK. This includes: 

• Virtual consultation
• Doctor-prescribed abortion pills
• Discreet, next-day delivery
• Ongoing clinical support and aftercare

We believe that safe abortion care shouldn’t come with unnecessary barriers. If cost is a concern, let us know - we may be able to connect you with resources that can help.

How can I get the abortion pill?

In the UK, you can access abortion pills in two main ways: through NHS services or a regulated private provider like Top at Home.

If you prefer to manage your abortion from home with full clinical support, Top at Home offers a safe, private, and fully remote option across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Our service includes a same-day virtual consultation, next-day delivery of medication, and compassionate aftercare from doctors and nurses you can trust.

Unfortunately, not all services that appear in search results are legitimate. Some so-called “crisis pregnancy centres” exist solely to delay or prevent access to abortion care. These organisations often present themselves as clinics, but they don’t provide abortion pills or unbiased medical advice. If you’re unsure, look for CQC-regulated providers or check with trusted resources like Brook or BPAS.

With Top at Home, you don’t need to travel, wait in a clinic, or worry about hidden steps. Everything happens from your home, with expert care at every stage.”

If you’re ready to begin, you can book your consultation or give us a call for a free consultation here. We’ll let you know if treatment is right for you and, if eligible, get your medication sent out as soon as the next day.

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Why choose Top at Home?

When you're making such a personal and important decision, you deserve care that’s not only medically sound, but also kind, private, and designed around your life. That’s what we’re here to provide. At Top at Home, we’ve supported thousands of people across the UK with safe, judgement-free abortion care they can manage from the comfort of home.

Here’s what makes us different:

• Trusted by thousands of patients across the UK
• Rated 5/5 by our patients
• Doctor-led, GMC-registered team
• Same-day consultations and next-day delivery
• Confidential, compassionate, expert care
  
  

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the abortion pill at home in the UK?
Yes - home use of both pills is legal in England, Wales, and Scotland after a virtual consultation.

Is it painful?
Most people describe it as like a very heavy period. Painkillers and rest usually help.

Will I still be able to have children?
Yes. Medication abortion has no impact on future fertility.

Do I need a scan before treatment?
Not always. If your pregnancy is straightforward and dates are clear, a scan isn’t required.

How quickly will I get my pills?
With Top at Home, most patients receive their medication within 24–48 hours of completing their consultation.

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Final Thoughts: You’re in control

Choosing to have an abortion is personal and no one else should make that decision for you. Whether you’re certain or still working it through, you deserve clear, compassionate care that meets you where you are.

At Top at Home, we’re here to make that process as simple, private, and supportive as it should be. From your first consultation to your final check-in, you’ll be looked after by GMC-registered doctors and a team that truly cares.

Take your next step when you're ready. Book your virtual consultation today. 

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