Does the Abortion Pill Hurt? A Compassionate Guide from Seven Hills Family Medicine

We’re often asked: “Will the abortion pill hurt?”

It’s one of the most common questions we get—and a completely reasonable one. But like many things in medicine and in life, there’s not one simple answer. Pain is what we call a biopsychosocial phenomenon, which means the way we experience it depends on the body, the mind, and our social and emotional environments.

In this post, we’ll walk through how each of those parts can affect the experience of a medication abortion—and how we approach pain with care and intention at Seven Hills.

Your Body’s Story Matters

Every body is different, and every person brings a unique physical history to their abortion experience. Some people describe the cramping from the abortion pill as similar to a heavy period. For others, it can feel more intense—closer to early labor cramps.

Someone who’s had an unmedicated vaginal delivery may find the experience more familiar or manageable than someone who’s never had a pregnancy before. This is partly because their cervix has softened and opened before, and their body has experienced uterine contractions.

But that’s not always the case. We’ve cared for folks who’ve never been pregnant before and had a smooth experience—and others who’ve had children and found the cramping tough. It’s not a measure of strength or pain tolerance. It’s about your unique physiology and how your body responds to the medication.

At Seven Hills, we honor that uniqueness and plan your care accordingly. We use high-dose anti-inflammatory medication to help reduce cramping, and we talk through what to expect so you’re not caught off guard.

Your Mind Affects Your Body

Pain is never just about the body. Our mental and emotional states can make pain feel more or less intense.

When someone is anxious or afraid, the body often tenses up, which can make cramping feel sharper. Stress also heightens our nervous system’s sensitivity to pain signals. That’s why feeling safe, informed, and supported really matters—not just emotionally, but physically too.

At Seven Hills, we take time to walk through how the abortion pill works, what you might feel, and what to watch for. We never rush you. Our goal is to make sure you feel prepared and grounded going into the process.

You can also bring a guest to your appointment who can stay with you the entire time. And if it feels supportive, we can incorporate aromatherapy and other small comforts to help your body feel more at ease.

Your Environment Shapes Your Experience

Our relationships, histories, and communities also play a role in how we experience pain.

If you come from a background where abortion is stigmatized—whether through religion, culture, or family—it can bring up complex feelings: fear, shame, grief. These feelings can affect how your brain interprets pain, often making it feel more intense.

We’re intentional about how we care for you. At Seven Hills, we offer abortion care in a setting that’s private, respectful, and inclusive. Our staff is trained in trauma-informed care, and we’re thoughtful about the language we use and the environment we create.

You’ll be seen in a family medicine office. The space is quiet and calm. Your appointment is never rushed. And our focus is always on what you need—physically, emotionally, and otherwise.

How We Support You During an Abortion by Pill

When you choose the abortion pill at Seven Hills, here’s what support can look like:

• Anti-inflammatory medication to reduce cramping

• Clear, detailed instructions on what to expect

• An open line of communication for questions or follow-up

• A guest-friendly environment, if you’d like someone with you

• An approach that centers your comfort and autonomy

Sometimes, a Different Option Is the Best Fit

There are some people who are better served by in-office abortion care with sedation or general anesthesia. If you know that anxiety, trauma, or medical complexity will make the abortion pill feel overwhelming or unsafe for you, we completely support that—and we’ll connect you with trusted community providers who can offer that kind of care.

There’s no one right way to do this. Only the right way for you.

You Deserve Care That Meets You Where You Are

At Seven Hills, we offer first trimester abortion care by pill in a setting that’s centered on privacy, respect, and support. We take the time to understand your experience, your body, and your concerns—so that you don’t have to navigate any part of this alone.

If you’re considering the abortion pill and want to talk through what to expect, we’re here.

Ready to Talk?

Book a private appointment in Richmond, VA.👉 schedule now

📞 Or call us: (804) 376-9114

Dr. Stephanie Arnold is a board-certified family physician and the owner of Seven Hills Family Medicine in Richmond, VA. She provides inclusive, trauma-informed primary care and first trimester abortion care in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.