The abortion pill, sometimes called a medical abortion, is a series of two drugs that work together to terminate a pregnancy. Mifepristone is given first, usually at the provider’s office, and it blocks the body’s progesterone, a hormone used to support pregnancy. Within 48 hours, misoprostol is taken at home to start uterine contractions. The pregnancy is forced out of the woman’s body with heavy bleeding and cramping.
The abortion pill is not a safe option for all pregnancies. Obtaining the appropriate test safeguards a woman’s health. An ultrasound is crucial before using the abortion pill for a few reasons:
STDs can be asymptomatic, meaning you can have an STD for years without knowing. STDs can increase the risk of complications from the abortion pill, including a severe infection called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can lead to chronic pelvic pain and increase the risk of future ectopic pregnancy and infertility.
It is essential to disclose your medical history to your provider before an abortion to rule out other circumstances that might make the abortion pill unsafe. Other factors that might make you ineligible include:
Schedule a free and confidential pre-abortion consultation today. Receive information about your pregnancy and your options so that you can prioritize your health.
Coastal Choices Women’s Clinic in DeLand, Florida, is a non-profit Community Health Clinic specializing in pregnancy confirmation and helping those facing unintended pregnancy explore their options. We do not provide extended OB/GYN or prenatal care nor do we perform or refer for abortion services, the abortion pill, emergency contraception, or birth control. The information presented on this website is intended for general education purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.