If you’re considering your options for an unexpected pregnancy, you may be thinking about the abortion pill. Before moving forward, it’s important to have accurate information about how it works, who it’s safe for, and what risks may be involved.
At Life Choices Medical Clinic, we provide pregnancy tests, ultrasounds if you qualify, and information about all your options. Schedule your no-charge, confidential appointment today to learn more about your pregnancy and next steps.
Learn How It Works
The abortion pill, also known as a chemical abortion, uses two drugs to end a pregnancy.
- Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the pregnancy to continue. Without it, the pregnancy detaches from the uterine lining.
- Misoprostol is then taken to cause uterine contractions, which expel the pregnancy from the body.
This process results in cramping and bleeding, but women may also experience side effects such as nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, diarrhea, or headache.
Risks of the Abortion Pill
Beyond side effects, abortion drugs also carry certain health risks. These may include:
- Digestive symptoms (i.e., upset stomach)
- Fever
- Infection
- Heavy, prolonged bleeding
- Incomplete abortion (when some pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus, potentially needing surgical treatment)
Knowing these risks and discussing your health history with a medical professional can help protect your safety and give you the clarity you need before deciding.
It’s Not Recommended for Everyone
According to the Mayo Clinic, the abortion pill is not recommended if any of the following apply:
- Are too far along in the pregnancy (The FDA has approved this method through 10 weeks gestation only)
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD) currently in place
- Have a suspected ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the uterus)
- Have certain medical conditions, including anemia, some bleeding disorders, chronic adrenal failure, certain heart or blood vessel diseases, severe liver, kidney, or lung disease, or an uncontrolled seizure disorder
- Take a blood thinner or certain steroid medicines
- Can’t reach a healthcare professional or don’t have access to emergency care
- Have an allergy to the drugs used
Reviewing your medical history with a licensed healthcare professional before deciding is also critical.
An Ultrasound Is Needed
Only an ultrasound can confirm essential details about your pregnancy, including:
- Whether it is located inside the uterus (to rule out ectopic pregnancy)
- If the pregnancy is progressing and has a heartbeat, or if you’ve experienced a miscarriage
- How far along you are (gestational age)
This information is crucial to protecting your health and understanding your options. At Life Choices Medical Clinic, our nurse performs ultrasounds for qualifying clients after a positive pregnancy test.
Life Choices Medical Clinic Is Here for You
You don’t have to make this decision alone. At Life Choices Medical Clinic, we provide no-charge services designed to give you accurate information, clarity, and support in a safe and confidential environment.
Schedule your appointment today and take the next step toward understanding your options.
FAQ:
Why is an ultrasound needed before taking the abortion pill?
An ultrasound confirms gestational age, the pregnancy’s location, and whether the pregnancy is progressing—all vital details for your health and safety.
Is the abortion pill safe to order online?
No. The FDA warns against purchasing abortion pills online because their safety and quality cannot be guaranteed.
Does Life Choices Medical Clinic provide abortions?
No. Life Choices Medical Clinic does not provide or refer for abortions. We provide no-charge and confidential services to confirm your pregnancy, explain your options, and give you the support you need.
Life Choices Medical Clinic does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.