Abortion Pill

Are you considering the abortion pill?

Did you know the abortion pill is actually 2 pills taken at different times?

You have probably heard reference to a self managed abortion, medical abortion, or chemical abortion. These terms all reference the abortion pill, which is actually 2 pills.

There is much 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 medical diagnosis before making any medical decision.

While it may sound simple enough, let’s not forget it is a prescribed medication that should be taken under doctors supervision, 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?

• Evaluate your overall medical history
• Confirm you are actually pregnant
• Confirm the pregnancy is viable or if it is not viable
• Confirm the gestation age (number of weeks you are pregnancy)
• 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 can not tell you exactly how far along you are into your pregnancy or if you have an ectopic pregnancy. The abortion pill is not prescribed if you are having an ectopic pregnancy. 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.

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.

How does the abortion pill work?

The abortion pill is actually 2 pills. The first one is Mifepristone and is generally taken with a medical provider. The second one is Misoprostol and taken at home.

What is oral Mifepristone (the first pill) do and how does it work?

• 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.
• Mifepristone is most often taken at a medical clinic with your medical provider.

What is oral Misoprostol (the second pill) and how does it work?

• Oral Misoprostol is taken 6 – 48 hours after the first pill.
• Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy
• This one is taken 6-48 hours after the first pill and causes contractions, which helps the woman deliver the fetus. This process is typically complete within 24-48 hours after the second pill is ingested and causes extreme bleeding and strong cramping. The amount and severity is 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 pain, 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 2 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 pll 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.

In Summary

Having a medical abortion is a major decision.

If you are considering taking the Abortion Pill, remember this is a medication and should be done with direct medical supervision like any other medication you would take. This is definitely not like taking cold medicine. This is not a time to self or be peer diagnosed.

To make an informed, personalized plan you should start with an in person full medical verification of pregnancy with a medical professional.

Please note, this information is provided for educational purposes only, and should not be used to diagnose or make an abortion decision.