What is Misoprostol?
Misoprostol is a medication used for medical abortion, miscarriage management, and postpartum bleeding. It causes the uterus to contract and expel pregnancy tissue. It is often used on its own or together with mifepristone for safe abortion.
How Can Misoprostol Be Taken?
There are two main ways to take misoprostol when terminating a pregnancy:
- Sublingual (under the tongue)
- Vaginal (inserted in the vagina)
1. Sublingual (Under the Tongue)
- Place 4 misoprostol tablets (200mcg each) under the tongue.
- Let them dissolve for 30 minutes — don’t swallow them right away.
- If some remains after 30 minutes, swallow it with water.
✔ Pros of Sublingual Use:
- Faster onset of action (within 30 minutes to 1 hour)
- Easy and discreet — no need to undress
- Useful when privacy is needed or insertion is uncomfortable
✘ Cons of Sublingual Use:
- May cause more side effects — like fever, chills, or nausea
- Taste may be unpleasant
2. Vaginal (Inserted in the Vagina)
- Wash your hands and lie down comfortably.
- Insert 4 misoprostol tablets (200mcg each) deep inside the vagina, as close to the cervix as possible.
- Remain lying down for at least 30 minutes to allow the tablets to absorb.
✔ Pros of Vaginal Use:
- Less likely to cause fever or chills
- Sometimes better for later pregnancies (9+ weeks)
- Longer-lasting effect (up to 6 hours)
✘ Cons of Vaginal Use:
- Can feel invasive or uncomfortable
- Requires privacy and clean conditions
- May not be ideal during heavy bleeding
Which Method is Better?
Both sublingual and vaginal use are effective and safe. The choice depends on:
- Stage of pregnancy
- Personal comfort and privacy
- Whether the abortion is self-managed or done with clinical support
👉 For pregnancies under 12 weeks, both methods are equally effective.
👉 Some guidelines recommend the vaginal route for 9–13 weeks due to better absorption
Important Tips
- Do not eat or drink for 30 minutes after placing the tablets sublingually.
- If using vaginally, avoid inserting anything else for at least 7 days after the procedure (including tampons or sex).
- Expect cramping, bleeding, and tissue passage — this is normal.
- Follow up for post-abortion care and ultrasound if needed.
Need Help or Guidance?
Women for Women Kenya provides:
- Confidential teleconsultations
- Medical abortion kits (misoprostol, combipack)
- Clear instructions and follow-up support
- Doorstep delivery across Kenya
📞 Contact Us
- Phone/WhatsApp: 0700 811 528
- Email: kenyawomenforwomen@gmail.com
- Website: www.womenforwomenkenya.com
🧠 Remember: The earlier the abortion, the safer it is. Misoprostol is powerful, but knowing how to use it correctly makes all the difference.
