If you’re considering a medical abortion (often called the “abortion pill”), it’s essential to have all the facts before making a decision. Medical abortion uses a combination of drugs early in pregnancy to end a pregnancy at home, but some details may impact your choice.
At The Pregnancy Help Center, we offer no-cost pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and confidential consultations so you can have the information you need to make an informed decision. Schedule an appointment to learn more about your options today. Same-day appointments are often available.
Here are five essential things to know about medical abortion:
1. Timing Matters
When first approved in 2000, the abortion pill was limited to use through 7 weeks of pregnancy. The FDA later extended that timeframe to 10 weeks. However, its effectiveness decreases as the pregnancy advances, and risks may increase.
An ultrasound is the most accurate way to confirm how far along you are and rule out complications like ectopic pregnancy, which requires emergency care.
2. Negative Drug Interactions Exist
The abortion pill can interact negatively with other prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, or supplements. According to the FDA, certain drugs—such as blood thinners, steroids, or some seizure medications—can make medical abortion more dangerous.
This is why reviewing your complete health history with a medical professional before starting the process is essential. Skipping this step can put your safety at risk.
3. The Physical Effects Can Be Intense
Many women experience heavy bleeding, severe cramping, and the passage of blood clots—sometimes as large as a lemon. If you soak through two or more pads an hour for two hours or more, it can signal a complication and needs immediate medical attention.
4. The Emotional Impact May Be Unexpected
Because the abortion process happens at home, some women see the fetal tissue when it passes. This can be distressing, especially in later weeks when development is more advanced. It’s important to know the potential emotional effects before beginning the process. Many women have reported adverse mental health consequences after taking the abortion pill.
5. Ordering Online Comes With Risks
In California, abortion is legal, and some may consider ordering abortion drugs online for privacy. However, the FDA cautions against this because online sources may not be regulated.
Pills ordered this way may not contain the right ingredients or dosage, and without an in-person exam, you won’t know your gestational age or if the pregnancy is ectopic. Both of these factors are critical to your safety.
We’re Here for You
If you’re considering abortion in California, start by confirming your pregnancy with pregnancy testing and an ultrasound. The Pregnancy Help Center provides these services at no cost in a caring, confidential environment. We don’t perform or refer for abortions, but we do provide accurate medical information and support so you can make the best decision for your health.
Schedule your no-cost, confidential appointment today.
We do not provide or refer for abortions. All medical information included in this blog is accurate at the time of publishing.
