An unexpected or unplanned pregnancy can cause a lot of stress. At Her Health Women’s Center your health and safety is our priority, so if you are considering taking the abortion pill there are a few important questions to answer first.Â
ARE YOU REALLY PREGNANT?
It is important to have an in-person appointment to determine if you are pregnant and if the pregnancy is occurring in the uterus. An ultrasound can verify your pregnancy and if the pregnancy is in the uterus. An ultrasound can also determine if you are having an ectopic (tubal) pregnancy or are at risk for a natural miscarriage.
Why are these steps important? Because, the abortion pill should not be taken if the pregnancy is ectopic (tubal), greater than 10 weeks gestationally or by women with certain medical conditions.  If a natural miscarriage is suspected, follow-up medical care and a repeat ultrasound may be needed first to determine if you are having a natural miscarriage before taking the abortion pill. Â
HOW FAR ALONG ARE YOU?
Once you know you are pregnant, the next step is to determine how far along your pregnancy is. If you are considering abortion as an option, it is crucial to know how many weeks you are into your pregnancy. The easiest way to determine this is by having an ultrasound. The abortion methods and costs vary depending on how far along you are. The abortion pill is approved for use up to 10 weeks LMP (from the first day of your last menstrual period). If you are further along than 10 weeks, a surgical abortion would be performed. As your pregnancy progresses the cost of abortion increases, as do the risks to the mother.  Â
WHAT IS YOUR HEALTH AND MEDICAL HISTORY?
If you are considering an abortion, it is important to know the potential side-effects and risks and how they relate to your physical and mental health. It is a myth that the abortion pill side effects are similar to a heavy period. Side effects of the abortion pill vary but can include: severe cramping, fever, blood clots, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, infection and more.
Risks of the abortion pill are also important to be aware of. Risks may include: seeing embryonic (baby) parts expelled if you are beyond 8 weeks, potential life-threatening infection, failure to abort or incomplete abortion, excessive bleeding, depression and other mental health concerns. Depending on your health and medical history, you may be at higher risk than others for some of these concerns. It is always important to discuss your health and any concerns you have related to your pregnancy before making a decision.   Â
SO WHAT NOW?
Book a free pregnancy confirmation and ultrasound with us so you can make an informed decision. All of our services are free. We strive to give you the information you need to make a knowledgeable decision regarding your pregnancy.  Please note our centers do not perform or refer for abortions.Â
Disclaimer: The sources cited for this blog are found to be reliable, however, Her Health Women’s Center can not endorse or oppose the entire content of the websites listed. The content of this blog is meant to be used for informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical care.Â
Sources: