Are you considering the abortion pill?
Did you know the abortion pill is 2 pills taken at different times?
The abortion pill is often referred as a self-managed abortion, medical abortion, or chemical abortion. These terms all reference the abortion pill (mifepristone and misoprostol).
There is a lot of information about the abortion pill, how it works, how to get it, and the cost of the abortion pill. You can find multiple websites providing you information about the pros and cons of taking the abortion pill. Please note, this information is provided for educational purposes only, and should not be used to diagnose or make an abortion decision. We recommend seeking in person a medical diagnosis before making any medical decision that is best for you.
While taking the abortion pill may sound simple enough, let’s not forget it is a prescribed medication that should be taken under a doctor’s supervisions, as prescribed, and only after proper medical verification of pregnancy.
Why do I first need proper medical verification of pregnancy before taking the abortion pill or having a self-managed abortion?
During a medical evaluation visit you will evaluate your overall medical history.
- You will confirm you are exactly pregnant (false positives do happen).
- You will confirm the pregnancy is viable or if it is not viable.
- You will confirm the gestation age (number of weeks you are pregnant).
Find a clinic that can provide you this information in person and for free.
Why do I need to know gestation age?
The abortion pill is generally prescribed for up to 10 weeks in your pregnancy. At home pregnancy tests are mostly accurate. They are a great first step, but nothing to make a final decision on. At home pregnancy tests cannot tell you exactly how far along you are into your pregnancy or if you have an ectopic pregnancy. If you are too far along or have an ectopic pregnancy the abortion pill may not be the safest option. The exact number of weeks you are into your pregnancy along with confirmation it is viable and not ectopic can only be done if you are seen in person. There are telehealth options available. While telehealth has come a long way, the truest and best answers are found with an in-office visit and exam.
Is the abortion pill the same thing as the ‘Morning-After Pill’ (or Plan B)?
No, the abortion pill is very different. The abortion pill is a self-managed abortion and is intended to eliminate an already confirmed pregnancy. The morning-after pill is a type of emergency birth control (contraception) used to prevent a pregnancy for women who’ve had unprotected sex or whose birth control method has failed.
So exactly what is the abortion pill and how does it work?
It begins with Mifepristone (the first pill).
Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone which is needed for a fetus to survive.
The uterine lining will thin and prevent an embryo from staying connected. Prior to new FDA regulations and telehealth options, Mifepristone was most often taken at a medical clinic with your medical provider.
The process is completed with Oral Misoprostol (the second pill).
Oral Misoprostol is taken 6 – 48 hours after the first pill. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract which helps the woman deliver the fetus. This process typically completes within 24-48 hours after the second pill is ingested and causes extreme bleeding and strong cramping. The amount and severity are different from woman to woman.
How will I feel during and after my self-managed abortion?
The medication may make you nauseated, induce vomiting, fever, chills, diarrhea and/ or a headache. It is important to properly prepare and discuss your personal medical history with a medical professional in advance of taking this or any medication.
According to the Mayo Clinic, if you have heavy bleeding defined as soaking two or more pads an hour for two hours, severed abdominal or back pan, a fever lasting more than 24 hours, these are not normal signs, and you should seek medical care immediately.
Do I need to take both pills for it to work?
Yes. The process is a two-pill prescription. To confirm the pregnancy has been expelled properly, it is recommended to have an in person follow up appointment with your provider.
What if I change my mind after taking the first pill?
If you have taken the first pill and are regretting your decision, time is of the essence. With proper timing and medications, there is a 64% change you may still be able to successfully carry the pregnancy to term. The abortion pill reversal is not effective after the second pill (misoprostol) is taken. To learn more about abortion pill reversal click here.
Can you order the abortion pill online?
All significant oral medication should be taken after medical consultation and under the direct supervision of a medical professional. Your health and safety matters. Since the Supreme Court ruling June 24, 2022 Abortion access is now a state by state decision and online access may be limited in your state.