Did you get the news that you may be unexpectedly pregnant? Or maybe you had unprotected sex and aren’t sure what to do. You may be at a standstill, trying to figure out what’s next. Maybe you’re thinking about Plan B or the abortion pill, but are unsure about the differences. Here are the facts about both.

What is Plan B?

Plan B (also called “The Morning After Pill”) is known as an emergency contraceptive, not a regular form of contraception. It works to prevent ovulation and fertilization after unprotected sex or failed birth control. 

It’s important to note that Plan B does not end a pregnancy that has already been implanted but works by delaying or preventing ovulation. It’s not effective if an egg has already been fertilized. It may also not be effective if you have allergies to the ingredients, are overweight, or are taking certain medications.

Side effects of Plan B include:

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Breast tenderness
  • Bleeding between periods or heavier menstrual bleeding
  • Lower abdominal pain or cramps

What is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill is not for preventing pregnancy but rather ending an existing one. It involves two powerful types of drugs: Mifepristone and Misoprostol. 

A pregnancy needs the hormone progesterone to grow. The first drug, Mifepristone, blocks the uterus from absorbing progesterone. It causes the uterine lining to thin and prevents the embryo from implanting and growing.

Misoprostol, the second drug, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through the vagina. The abortion pill (known as medication abortion) is only for women 10 weeks pregnant and under.

Side effects of the abortion pill:

  • Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
  • An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
  • Heavy and prolonged bleeding
  • Infection
  • Fever
  • Digestive system discomfort

What’s my next step?

Your best next step is to confirm your pregnancy with free lab-quality pregnancy testing and learn how far along you are with a free ultrasound. At Turlock Pregnancy & Health Center, we provide both! 

Know what you’re eligible for and get your questions answered by our kind and compassionate staff today.  Make a no-cost and confidential pregnancy confirmation appointment. We’re here for you.

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