Expert: Doctor Early Options - 8/6/2009

Question
I took the "in clinic" pill on 08/04 after have 3 + home pregnancy tests on 08/03.  On the 5th I took 2 sets of the pills @ home after 24 hrs of the 1st, 2 hrs seperatly between gum & cheek.  I went to bed & woke up 7 hrs later to nothing.  No cramping, bleeding, etc.

I called the clinic & was told this was not normal but not out of the ordinary either & they want to see me tomorrow for another ultrasound & additional meds or the surgical procedure.

I've called my dr b/c I feel very unsure about all that has happened....

Is there a possiblity that the pills didn't work? If so, what's the chances of having a normal pregnancy and healthy baby?

Also, I am 4 weeks pregnant from last menstrual cycle on 7/8.

Thank you

Answer
Dear Jill,
I'm sorry you're having a difficult time. It sounds like the pills did not work.  This happens about 1-2/100 times.  You should be given the option to repeat the second set of pills up to two more times, or to have a procedure.  I am unfamiliar with the protocol that was used - did you take 4 misoprostol pills in your cheek x 2? or 2 pills x 2?  I would recommend 4 pills at once.

The misoprostol pills can cause severe birth defects, so it will not be an options to continue the pregnancy.  This should have been explained to you when you got them.  

I hope this is helpful,
Doctor Joan
EarlyAbortionOptions.com
New York City