Understanding Misoprostol Use Before Abortion: A Patient's Question

Question
Hi. I had an abortion 2 months ago. It was when I was 14 weeks pregnant. At the time I didn't like to hear how the procedure will be done. I know that they put a pill inside my vagina and I went to the room. They said I will start bleeding after some time and gave me sanitary pads. After 1h of having that pill inserted they took me for the operation. But I wasn't bleeding yet. I asked them why not, they just say it is ok.

What  I am curious to know now is, what was that pill for. What was it causing? Why I wasn't beeding as they said? Was that really ok? What kind of surgical procedure was done on me?

Thank you!

With respect,
Nina

Answer
Dear Nina,
The pill that was inserted in your vagina was misoprostol, and it works to dilate your cervix and cause your uterus to contract.  If you wait long enough, you will often start to bleed after taking it, but you don't need to bleed to show that it is working. Misoprostol is often used to help get the cervix ready so that it makes the procedure easier for you and for the doctor.  It is completely harmless - in fact it is used mainly as an ulcer medication and they discovered it had the side effect of causing miscarriages.  The surgical procedure you had done was a D&C, a very safe procedure.  Everything you say sounds like it was done correctly, and there is nothing to be concerned about.  
I hope this is helpful,
Doctor Joan
EarlyAbortionOptions.com
New York City