While the abortion pill may be available online, it is important to understand what you are taking and get the information you need about your pregnancy before making a decision.

Before taking abortion drugs, you need to know your gestational age (how far along you are), where the pregnancy is located, and whether there is a fetal heartbeat. These critical details can give you a clearer picture of your situation and what to do next.

Clara Women’s Center provides confidential pregnancy services, including free lab-quality pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds, along with information about abortion and your other pregnancy options.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment, and read on to learn more about what you need to know before buying the abortion pill online.

What Are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill process typically involves two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol.

Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone needed to support and continue pregnancy. Misoprostol is taken 24 to 48 hours afterward and causes the uterus to contract, resulting in abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding as the pregnancy is expelled.

The cramping and bleeding are expected parts of the process. Other possible side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, chills, and headache. This abortion method is FDA-approved for use through 10 weeks of gestation.

There are also potential complications to be aware of, including:

• Heavy or prolonged bleeding
• Infection
• Fever
• Digestive symptoms
• An incomplete abortion

The FDA Warns Against Ordering the Abortion Pill Online

The FDA warns against purchasing abortion drugs from unverified online sources. This is because you won’t know whether the drugs are properly dosed, effective, or correctly manufactured. There is no way to tell or verify that they contain the right ingredients.

Ordering abortion drugs without first receiving appropriate medical care may also mean you do not have the opportunity to assess important details about your pregnancy, ask questions, or receive follow-up care.

Why an Ultrasound Comes First

A positive pregnancy test can confirm your pregnancy; however, it doesn’t tell you how your pregnancy is developing. 

A limited ultrasound can provide additional information, including:

• How far along you are (gestational age)
• Where the pregnancy is located
• Whether the pregnancy is developing or if you’ve miscarried

These details can affect your health and available options.

For example, an ectopic pregnancy occurs when a pregnancy develops outside the uterus, either in the fallopian tube or other locations. An ectopic pregnancy can become a medical emergency and requires medical treatment. 

An ultrasound can also help determine if a miscarriage has already occurred. It is still possible to receive a positive pregnancy test after a miscarriage due to remaining hCG levels in the body.

Get the Facts First

If you are considering ordering abortion drugs online, getting the facts about your pregnancy and options can help you make an informed decision. 

Clara Women’s Center provides free pregnancy services to help you better understand your pregnancy. We can also provide accurate information about your pregnancy options, including parenting, adoption, and abortion, and we’re here to offer support as you think through each.

Our team is here to answer your questions and give you a place to talk through your concerns without pressure or judgment.

Schedule your appointment to get the clarity you deserve.