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the abortion pill
early medication abortion method
What is the abortion pill? How does it work?

A chemical abortion, the abortion pill, is two drugs usually taken in separate doses. The abortion pill is also known as a self-managed abortion, at-home abortion, Plan C or missed period pills.

 

The first dose cuts off nutrients and progesterone to the fetus. The second dose starts the labor process to expel the remains. Symptoms include heavy cramping and contractions, bleeding, nausea, and more. If you experience, large blot clots, high fever, extreme pain, or failure to pass the remains, contact 911 immediately. Even in states where abortion is illegal, you cannot be prosecuted for obtaining an abortion. Doctors need to know any pills you have taken to be able to properly treat you. 

When can I take the abortion pill?

It is usually taken between 4-6 weeks, but it is FDA-approved up through 10 weeks after a woman's last menstrual period (LMP). It is not emergency contraception. You should not take the abortion pill if a pregnancy has not been confirmed.

If you are considering a medication abortion or ordering the abortion pill online, contact us to learn more about how it works, side effects, and what options are available to you in your state.  While we do not provide or refer for abortion services, we can provide you with a free ultrasound so you have the answers you need before you decide.

An ultrasound can tell you how far along you are and how many pills that are needed in order to complete an abortion. Make a free appointment for an ultrasound and nurse assessment today.

How effective is the abortion pill?

The effectiveness of the abortion pill is determined by how far along you are when you take the medications. It works 94-98% of the time. Note: The abortion pill does not work and should not be taken if you have an ectopic pregnancy. Contact to verify your pregnancy and if it is occurring inside the uterus.

Can I order the abortion pill online?

While you can order abortion pills by mail, it is a risk to your health and safety. Make an appointment today to confirm your pregnancy and how far along you are. This information can help you plan your next steps. 


FDA Warning on Abortion Pills By Mail
You should not buy [abortion pills] over the Internet because you will bypass important safeguards designed to protect your health. [Abortion pills have] special safety restrictions on how it is distributed to the public. Also, drugs purchased from foreign Internet sources are not the FDA-approved versions of the drugs, and they are not subject to FDA-regulated manufacturing controls or FDA inspection of manufacturing facilities.

What if I've only taken the first pill and I change my mind?

Some women decide they want to continue their pregnancy after taking the first pill. The process of the abortion pill can be reversed if action is taken immediately after the first medication. Reliance offers abortion pill reversal services, but if you need assistance immediately and it is after hours, contact the abortion pill reversal hotline at (877) 558-0333.

Things to Note: We provide evidence-based education on abortion pills and procedures. We do not perform or refer for termination services. 

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