Abortion Pill: Myth vs Facts

There’s a lot of misinformation about the abortion pill and how it works. We can provide a free consultation and answer your questions or concerns.

Before Taking the Abortion Pill:

Determine how far along you are.

The abortion pill is only effective for pregnancies below a certain gestational age. If your pregnancy is past a certain week, it may be too late to take the abortion pill. Ensure you aren’t putting yourself at risk by getting a free limited ultrasound first and finding out how far along you are. 

Make sure the pregnancy is viable. 

Approximately 15-25% of pregnancies end in miscarriage. It is important to get an ultrasound first to determine if the pregnancy is viable. An ultrasound can also rule out an ectopic pregnancy, which occurs when the fertilized egg does not correctly move into the uterus. This can be a life-threatening condition and would need immediate action.

How much do you know about the abortion pill?

1. It’s officially called RU-486 and was approved by the FDA in 2000. Other names for the abortion pill is a self-managed abortion, medical abortion or chemical abortion. 

1. The pill is two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol, and it’s taken in two separate doses. 

1. It can cost anywhere between $200-$700.

1. The abortion pill is not the same as the emergency contraceptive, The Morning After Pill or Plan B One-Step. 

1. It is usually taken between 4-6 weeks but can be taken up to 10 weeks after your last menstrual period (LMP)—this should be verified through an ultrasound. 

1. It is not an option for people with certain medical conditions.

1. Reversal is possible if action is taken after the first dose. 

What are some side effects of the abortion pill?

1. Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion

2. Heavy or prolonged bleeding

3. Infection or septic shock 

4. Digestive system pain or discomfort

5. Heavy cramping

6. Fever

7. Nausea or vomiting 

If you are considering the abortion pill, come see us. We provide a free pregnancy confirmation appointment to determine if your pregnancy is viable and how far along you are. With several abortion methods available today, this information will determine what options are available and how much it will cost. 

Learn more about the pill and how it works, and talk to a nurse about your medical history. 

Make an appointment today. 

We serve women and men by providing no-cost, professional, and confidential services. 

Sources: 

At Home Abortion Facts. (2023a, February 26). Abortion Health & Safety Checklist | At-Home Abortion Facts. https://athomeabortionfacts.com/abortion-health-safety-checklist/ 

U.S. Food And Drug Administration. (Research) Information about Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/information-about-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation

Abortion Pill Reversal. (n.d.-b). Overview. https://abortionpillreversal.com/abortion-pill-reversal/overview 

Risk Factors for Abortion and First Trimester Miscarriage-Results From a UK-Population-Based Case-Control Study, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, December 4, 2006, pp. 1-17.