Abortion Pill FAQs | Telemedicine Abortion UK

General

What services does Top at Home provide?

Top at Home provides safe, discreet medical abortion care for women in the UK through virtual consultations and abortion pills delivered by post. Our service is CQC-regulated and led by GMC-licensed doctors, making it a trusted online option for early abortion (under 10 weeks).

Is my abortion confidential? Will my GP be informed?

Your care at Top at Home is 100% confidential. We will not inform your GP or share any details about your abortion unless legally required. Your privacy, trust, and safety are our top priorities.

How do I know how many weeks pregnant I am?

You can estimate your pregnancy stage by using our free online pregnancy calculator. Just enter the first day of your last period to get an idea of how far along you might be.

Can I still have an abortion if I’m more than 10 weeks pregnant?

Top at Home offers medical abortion services for pregnancies up to 10 weeks. If you are beyond this timeframe, you’ll need to consider in-clinic abortion care. Visit the NHS or BPAS for support with later-stage abortions.

How can I leave feedback or get in touch with Top at Home?

We welcome your feedback. You can contact us via the Contact Us page to share suggestions, concerns, or compliments. Your input helps us improve our service.

Your Remote Consultation

How do I book an abortion consultation online?

Booking your abortion consultation is simple and secure. We use Semble.io, a trusted medical booking system with Stripe integration for safe payments. Just visit our online booking page to choose a time that suits you. After booking, you'll have a private telephone or video consultation with a GMC-licensed UK doctor.

How soon can I get a medical abortion appointment?

We usually offer same-day or next-day appointments, depending on availability. We understand timing matters and aim to support you as soon as possible.

When and how do I pay for my abortion treatment?

Payment is required upfront when you book your consultation. We use Semble.io, a secure, NHS-compliant medical booking platform with Stripe integration to ensure all transactions are encrypted and safe.
Your £399 all-inclusive fee covers your consultation, abortion medication, delivery, and aftercare. If for any reason our doctors determine that treatment isn’t suitable for you, we’ll issue a refund (minus a small administrative fee).

Who will I speak to during my online consultation?

You’ll have a private and confidential consultation with a compassionate, GMC-licensed doctor. All of our doctors are highly experienced in abortion care and will support you with kindness and respect.

Medication

What abortion pills will I receive and how do they work?

Your treatment includes two MHRA-approved pills used in UK abortion clinics: Mifepristone, which blocks the hormone progesterone to stop the pregnancy, and Misoprostol, which causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.
This combination is used in early medical abortion care up to 10 weeks.

Where do the abortion pills come from? Are they safe?

Yes, the medication is dispensed from a UK-registered pharmacy that is licensed and regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). This ensures full safety, legitimacy, and compliance with national guidelines.

How long does it take for the abortion pill to arrive after my consultation?

We dispatch your abortion medication shortly after your virtual consultation. Most patients receive it within 24–48 hours via discreet, unmarked packaging, shipped directly to your preferred UK address.

If you'd prefer to collect your medication in person, we offer two convenient pickup locations:

London – Mychemistonline Pharmacy Address: Unit F63, Expressways, 1 Dock Road, London E16 1AH

Croydon – Top at Home Office (By Appointment) Address: The Lansdowne Building, 2 Lansdowne Road, Croydon CR9 2ER

How effective is the medical abortion pill?

When used as prescribed, the medical abortion pill is 98% effective.
Most people successfully complete their abortion with a single dose of medication.
In some cases, a second dose or follow-up may be recommended to ensure everything is complete.
Our clinical team is here to support you throughout the process and will guide you based on your individual needs.

Do I have to take Misoprostol exactly 24 hours after Mifepristone?

While it’s recommended to take Misoprostol 24 hours after Mifepristone, it can still be effective if taken between 12 and 72 hours later.
Always follow the instructions provided by your doctor for the best outcome.

How Long After Mifepristone Can I Take Misoprostol?

We recommend taking Misoprostol 24 hours after Mifepristone for the best results. However, taking Misoprostol slightly earlier or later (within a range of 12–72 hours) will not affect the outcome of your abortion.

Can I take Misoprostol sooner than 24 hours after Mifepristone?

If 24 hours isn’t possible, wait at least 12 hours before taking Misoprostol. While this is not the standard protocol, studies show it can still be effective. Speak to your doctor if you need flexibility.

What happens if I forget to take Misoprostol on time?

It’s important to take Misoprostol within the recommended 12–72 hour window. If you miss the window or are unsure what to do, contact our team right away for guidance. Taking it outside this timeframe may reduce its effectiveness.

What if I accidentally take Misoprostol when I’m not pregnant?

Misoprostol is generally safe even when not pregnant. You might experience cramping, nausea, or diarrhoea for up to 24 hours. Interestingly, Misoprostol is also commonly used to treat gastric ulcers.

About the Abortion

How does medical abortion work?

A medical abortion uses two pills, mifepristone and misoprostol to safely end an early pregnancy.
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1. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, which is needed to maintain the pregnancy.
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2. Misoprostol, taken 24–48 hours later, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.

To support your comfort and recovery, we include:
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‍Diclofenac 50mg: Take 2 tablets with water when you insert the misoprostol, then every 6 hours for pain relief (10 tablets provided).
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‍Co-codamol 15/500mg: Take 1–2 tablets every 8 hours as needed for pain (10 tablets provided).

‍A low-sensitivity pregnancy test: To be used 3 weeks after treatment to confirm the abortion was successful.
All medications are MHRA-approved and dispensed by a UK-registered pharmacy in discreet packaging.

Does a medical abortion hurt?

You may experience strong cramping and bleeding, similar to an intense period. This is a natural part of the process as your body passes the pregnancy. To make things more comfortable, your kit includes high-strength pain relief tablets.

Do I need an ultrasound scan?

Most people do not need an ultrasound. However, we may recommend one if:You’re over 10 weeks pregnant, orYou may be at risk for an ectopic pregnancy.

We’ll guide you through this during your consultation.

What is an ectopic pregnancy, and why is it important?

An ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilised egg implants outside the womb, usually in a fallopian tube.
This can be life-threatening if not treated.

If you’re at higher risk due to past ectopic pregnancies or unusual symptoms, we’ll arrange an ultrasound to keep you safe.

What should I do if I have an emergency during the abortion process?

Our UK-licensed doctors are available 24/7. We’ll give you a dedicated support number after your consultation for urgent questions.
If you experience a serious or unrelated emergency, please call 999 or visit your local A&E.

Will having a medical abortion affect my future fertility?

No, there’s no evidence that a medical abortion affects your ability to get pregnant in the future. Medication-based abortions are safe, and there are no long-term effects on fertility when taken as prescribed.

Recovery

How do I know if the abortion is successful?

A successful abortion is usually indicated by cramping, bleeding similar to a heavy period, and the gradual fading of pregnancy symptoms (like nausea or breast tenderness) within a week.

Use the low-sensitivity pregnancy test included in your kit 3 weeks after treatment to confirm the result. If you’re unsure, contact our team for free follow-up support.

How long will I bleed after taking the abortion pill?

Bleeding typically begins within hours of taking Misoprostol and can last 4 days to 4 weeks.

You may experience spotting or heavier bleeding during this time. Contact us if your bleeding is very heavy, has an unusual pattern, or if you're concerned.

How long does recovery take after a medical abortion?

Most people feel physically better within a few days to one week. You can return to daily activities when you feel ready, but we recommend rest during the first few days.

Everyone’s recovery experience is different, listen to your body.

When can I use tampons or a menstrual cup after a medical abortion?

Wait at least 2 days before using tampons or menstrual cups. Using sanitary pads during this time can reduce the risk of infection while your body heals.

When can I start birth control after a medical abortion?

You can begin most contraception methods, including the pill, patch, or injection, on the same day as your second abortion pill (Misoprostol).

For more guidance, visit the Brook or NHS contraception pages.

When is it safe to have sex after a medical abortion?

You can have sex again when you feel physically and emotionally ready. It’s best to wait until bleeding has stopped to minimize infection risk. Use contraception if you wish to avoid another pregnancy.

Can I eat or drink after taking the abortion pill?

Yes, you can eat and drink normally after taking Mifepristone and Misoprostol. However, avoid alcohol and recreational drugs for at least 48 hours, as they may interfere with recovery and affect judgment.

What should I avoid after taking abortion pills?

After taking Mifepristone and Misoprostol, avoid alcohol, recreational drugs, and inserting anything into the vagina (like tampons or menstrual cups) for at least 2 days to reduce the risk of infection. Rest when needed, stay hydrated, and follow your doctor’s advice for a safe recovery.

Can I use abortion pills while breastfeeding?

Yes. Both Mifepristone and Misoprostol are safe while breastfeeding. Misoprostol can rarely cause mild stomach upset in breastfed babies. If you have any concerns, speak with one of our doctors during your consultation.

Can I reverse the abortion pill?

No. Claims that the abortion pill can be reversed are not supported by any reputable medical organization. The so-called “reversal” method is unproven and potentially dangerous. Always ask questions and be certain before starting the treatment.

Abortion Pill Risks, Side Effects & What to Expect

What are the common side effects of the abortion pill?

You may experience cramping, bleeding, nausea, diarrhoea, tiredness, or mild fever. These are normal and usually ease within a few days. Use the provided pain relief and rest as needed.

What are the signs of a complication after taking the abortion pill?

Contact us if you experience any of the following:

Soaking more than 2 maxi pads per hour for 2 hours

Severe abdominal pain or fever over 38°C (100.4°F)

Foul-smelling discharge

Dizziness or feeling faint

These could indicate infection or excessive bleeding.

What is an incomplete abortion, and how is it treated?

An incomplete abortion may involve ongoing bleeding or pain.
It may require taking two more Misoprostol tablets or a minor procedure. Our doctors will guide you based on your symptoms.

What’s the difference between a miscarriage and a medical abortion?

Symptoms are nearly identical. After taking the pills, there's no way for a doctor to visually confirm the difference.
If you're unsure, a follow-up test or scan may help confirm the outcome.

Can I still be pregnant after taking the abortion pill?

Ongoing pregnancy occurs in less than 1% of cases. If symptoms persist or you still feel pregnant after 3–4 weeks, take the included pregnancy test and reach out for support.

How long will I bleed after taking the abortion pill?

Most women experience heavier bleeding in the first 24 hours, which then eases. Spotting can last 1–3 weeks. If you're concerned, especially about prolonged heavy bleeding, contact our team.

Will I need a follow-up after my abortion?