If you are pregnant, one option available is the abortion pill through the mail. While this might be an appealing alternative since it is convenient and discrete, there are some things you should learn to decide if this option is right for you.
What is the Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill involves two drugs that cause a medical abortion. The first pill, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone that your body needs to continue the pregnancy. The second pill taken within 48 hours of the first is called misoprostol. This pill will cause the uterus to contract (squeezing) to force the pregnancy out of the body.
What are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?
Like every medical procedure, a medical abortion carries some risks. Since mail-order abortion will be performed at home, it is essential that you understand these risks so you can put your health and safety first.
The risks of a medical abortion include the following:
- Incomplete abortion
- Heavy bleeding that will not stop
- Infection
- Fever
- Diarrhea and digestive pain
- Allergic reaction to the medications
A woman that receives an abortion via the mail will need to monitor herself for signs and symptoms that might be associated with the more severe risks. Medical help should be sought with the following signs:
- Severe bleeding — soaking more than two thick pads within an hour
- Fever that lasts more than 24 hours
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Severe abdominal or back pain
- You do not get your period after two months
- You have symptoms of pregnancy
How do I Know if the Abortion Pill is Best for Me?
Some women might not be eligible for the abortion pill. Gathering facts about your pregnancy can help determine if this option is the best for you.
Is your pregnancy viable? An estimated 10-20% of pregnancies end in natural miscarriage. Determining if your pregnancy is growing should be the first step in your decision process. If you do not have a viable pregnancy, you might need a different treatment.
How far along is your pregnancy? The FDA has only approved the abortion pill for pregnancies up to 10 weeks. Taking the abortion pill after this recommended window can increase your risk of complications from the abortion.
Where is your pregnancy located? Sometimes a pregnancy implants somewhere other than the uterine wall. This is called an ectopic pregnancy, which can be dangerous for the woman. The abortion pill is not an effective treatment for an ectopic pregnancy, so you should know where your pregnancy is located to determine if treatment for ectopic pregnancy might be necessary.
A Limited Obstetrical Ultrasound is the best way to confirm, date, and locate your pregnancy. Before choosing a mail-order abortion, consider obtaining an ultrasound to get the facts and keep you safe.
We are Here to Support You
At Dove Medical, we provide free pregnancy testing and Limited Obstetrical Ultrasound for pregnancy diagnosis. If you have questions about your choices, you can find information here. Contact us today to set up a free appointment.
Sources: FDA, Cleveland Clinic
This post is for education and information purposes only and does not substitute the advice of a Healthcare Professional.
Dove Medical offers pregnancy diagnosis, decision coaching, and accurate information about all pregnancy options; however, we do not offer or refer for abortion services including the abortion pill.