If you’re considering the abortion pill, you may wonder if there are restrictions on who can safely take it. It’s smart to look into this because the abortion pill, also known as a medication abortion, is not an option for every woman.
Your health history, pregnancy details, and certain medical conditions all affect whether it’s considered safe for you.
Before making any decisions, it’s important to confirm your pregnancy with lab-quality testing and an ultrasound. At Turlock Pregnancy and Health Center, we provide these services at no cost in a safe and confidential environment. Schedule your free appointment today.
How the Abortion Pill Works
The abortion pill is FDA-approved through the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. It involves two drugs:
- Mifepristone, which blocks the hormone progesterone and ends the pregnancy.
- Misoprostol, taken 24 to 48 hours later, causes uterine contractions and vaginal bleeding to expel the pregnancy from the uterus.
Every woman who takes the abortion pill will experience abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding. Additional side effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, upset stomach, headache, fever, or chills.
Restrictions on Who Can Take the Abortion Pill
According to medical guidelines, the abortion pill is not an option if you…
- Are more than 10 weeks pregnant.
- Have an ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the uterus).
- Have certain medical conditions such as bleeding disorders, severe heart, liver, or kidney disease.
- Take blood thinners or corticosteroids.
- Have an IUD in place at the time of pregnancy.
- Are allergic to the medications used.
An untreated STD can also increase the risk of infection during the process. This is why testing and medical oversight are so important before moving forward.
Why an Ultrasound Is Essential
An ultrasound is the only way to confirm how far along you are, detect ectopic pregnancy, and determine if the pregnancy is progressing normally. Skipping this step could put your health at serious risk.
At Turlock Pregnancy and Health Center, we can provide the answers you need before you make a decision. Contact us today to schedule your free and confidential appointment.
FAQs
What are the gestational limits for the abortion pill?
The abortion pill is only FDA-approved through the first 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Why isn’t the abortion pill safe with certain medical conditions?
Certain medical conditions can increase your health risks for different reasons. For instance, being on a blood thinner or having a bleeding disorder can raise the risk of dangerous bleeding. Having anemia can make losing too much blood especially risky.
Do I need an ultrasound before the abortion pill?
Yes. An ultrasound confirms gestational age, checks for ectopic pregnancy, and ensures you haven’t already miscarried.