What do I need for an abortion at home?

What do I need for an abortion at home?

If you intend to have an abortion with pills at home, you need to have the following essential items:
 
- Abortion pills: The recommended regimen for an abortion with pills nowadays is Mifepristone followed by Misoprostol. If you only have Misoprostol you can still have an abortion but you will need more tablets of Misoprostol (around 12 instead of the usual 4-8).
- Maxi pads: Bleeding starts after taking Misoprostol and is usually heavier than a period. You need a supply of maxi pads to manage the bleeding and to measure the amount of blood coming out. If you soak through more than 2 maxi pads in an hour for more than 2 hours you are probably bleeding too much and you should consider seeking medical help.
- A phone: Either a functional landline or a charged mobile phone with credit. In the unlikely event of a serious complication, you will need to call for help.
 
You should also consider having the following:
 
- Someone you trust: Ideally you should have a trusted person with you during the abortion, especially when using the second abortion pill Misoprostol. In the unlikely event of a serious complication, the other person can call for help or take you to hospital.
- Painkillers: Abortion with pills is not a pain free process and many women experience strong pains. Analgesics of the NSAID class are the most effective at managing this pain. Some of these analgesics are available over the counter at pharmacies, such as Ibuprofen (Nurofen). If you have Ibuprofen, consider taking 400mg one hour before using the second abortion pill Misoprostol. You can take more doses of Ibuprofen later if needed, but do not exceed 1,200mg in 24 hours.
- Anti-sickness medication: Nausea is also common during an abortion with pills and anti-sickness medication can help ease the symptoms. Most of these medications, such as Domperidone (Motilium) and Metoclopramide need a prescription. If you have some at home, you can take one tablet one hour before using the second abortion pill Misoprostol.

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