The “abortion pill,” another name for medical abortion, has been growing in popularity among women facing unexpected pregnancies.
Many are pursuing an online or at-home abortion, which involves purchasing the abortion drugs over the Internet and having them shipped to their homes.
If you’re considering this abortion method, we want you to get the facts about this procedure before making a decision. Your health and well-being are the top priorities, especially when making a major medical decision.
What is the Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill actually uses two drugs to end a pregnancy. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, which supports and sustains a pregnancy. Without this essential hormone, the pregnancy will not survive. Then, misoprostol causes uterine contractions that expel the pregnancy and related tissues from the uterus.
If you take these abortion drugs, you’ll have abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding. You should also discuss the potential risks with a healthcare provider, which include infection, fever, and heavy bleeding.
Things to Consider Before Purchasing the Abortion Pill Online
When you purchase abortion drugs online, you may be approved to do so after a single telehealth appointment. This process does not include pregnancy confirmation, which includes an obstetric ultrasound to confirm your pregnancy’s viability (whether it is progressing normally and has a heartbeat), gestational age (how far along you are), and location.
You need this information to determine your pregnancy options and identify whether medical conditions like ectopic pregnancy are present.
The FDA also warns against purchasing the abortion pill online, as doing so bypasses safety standards that protect your health. These drugs may come from unregulated or overseas sources, and it may be impossible to know whether you’re receiving the correct dosage and even type of drugs.
Protect Your Health Today
Amador Pregnancy & Family Resource Center cares about your health. We’re here to discuss your options, provide ultrasound referrals (following a positive pregnancy test at our center and if you’re eligible), and more.
Schedule an appointment today to learn about our no-cost, confidential services.
We do not provide or refer for abortions.