What Is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill, also known as medication abortion, consists of two different abortion pills that terminate the pregnancy. Only women up to 10 weeks of pregnancy are eligible for the abortion pill. An ultrasound is the only way to accurately confirm how far along you are in your pregnancy and that the pregnancy is viable. It is also required in the state of Ohio prior to any abortion procedure, including the abortion pill. The first abortion pill, Mifepristone, blocks the progesterone hormone and causes the lining of the uterus to thin, and stops the embryo from staying implanted or growing. The second abortion pill, Misoprostol, makes the uterus contract and releases the embryo through the vagina. Many women think this process is as easy as taking a pill, and it’s over. Unfortunately, it’s not quite that simple.

How do I know if I am pregnant?

If you have had unprotected sex or experienced a failure of birth control and are having symptoms such as a late or missed period, tender or swollen breasts, fatigue, food cravings, aversions or nausea, you may be pregnant. Your first step in confirming your pregnancy is to receive a lab-quality pregnancy test followed up by an obstetrical ultrasound. We offer these tests and more free of charge at Ivy Women’s Center.

When should I take a pregnancy test?

When you become pregnant, your body will begin to produce the pregnancy hormone, known as hCG. It may take up to a week after a missed period for your body to produce enough of this hormone to be detected by a home pregnancy test. The best time to take a pregnancy test and obtain the most accurate results is 1-2 weeks after a missed period.

Why is it important to be tested for an STD while pregnant?

Left untreated, an STD can carry serious health risks, especially through a pregnancy. Regardless of the decisions you make about your pregnancy, it’s important to be tested and treated if an infection is present. This testing and treatment will help to prevent conditions such as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease and other serious complications to your long term reproductive health. Testing is quick and convenient, taking place during the same appointment as your consultation.

Is abortion legal in Ohio?

Yes. Abortion is legal in Ohio with the following restrictions, which are in place for the protection and safety of women: Women must receive state-mandated counseling at least 24 hours prior to having an abortion procedure. FDA protocols must be followed when providing a medical abortion Parental consent is required for minors prior to an abortion Women must receive an ultrasound prior to an abortion Abortions after 22 weeks of gestation are only available when the woman’s life is in danger.

Can I order the abortion pill online in Ohio?

Ohio state law and the FDA protocols require a doctor’s prescription for the abortion pill. This law is in place to protect women from potentially harmful pills ordered online and to make sure the abortion pill is taken within the correct window of time during the pregnancy (prior to 10 weeks).

Is it important to have an ultrasound?

Once a positive result is received on your lab-quality pregnancy test, the next step is to have a limited ultrasound. An ultrasound is not only required if you are considering an abortion, but it will also reveal important information about the pregnancy that is crucial to your health and safety. It will also help determine what type of abortion procedure is available to you.

Talking to Your Partner About Sexual Health

If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, you may feel like you have a thousand thoughts running through your mind—how this will impact your future, what your options are, and how to talk to your partner about everything you’re going through. One of the hardest steps can be opening up about sexual health and the pregnancy itself.

At Ivy Women’s Center, we understand how overwhelming this season can feel. As a women’s health provider, we’re here to support you with information and resources so you don’t have to navigate these conversations alone.

Why These Conversations Are Important

Even though it may feel uncomfortable at first, talking with your partner about sexual health can:

Build trust during an uncertain time
Help you both understand each other’s expectations and concerns
Encourage shared responsibility for health and protection
Create a stronger foundation as you face decisions together

Tips for Talking to Your Partner

Here are a few ways to approach the conversation that can make it feel a little less overwhelming:

Choose a private, calm moment. Pick a time when you won’t be rushed or distracted. Privacy gives you space to talk openly.
Lead with care. You don’t need the perfect words—simply letting your partner know you care about both of your well-being sets the tone.
Be honest. Share how you’re feeling and what you’re concerned about. Whether it’s the pregnancy, testing, or protection moving forward, being upfront invites honesty in return.
Listen, too. Your partner may have his own feelings and questions. Allowing him to share helps keep the conversation two-sided.
Bring in outside support. If it feels like too much to handle on your own, a women’s health provider can walk with you, answer your questions, and provide clarity for both of you.

Where to Turn for Support

You don’t have to carry the weight of these conversations by yourself. Ivy Women’s Center offers free and confidential services—including pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and education about sexual health. Our team is here to listen, provide medical insight, and give you the support you need to take the next step.

Schedule a Consultation

FAQs About Talking to Your Partner

Q: How do I bring up sexual health with my partner if I’m pregnant?

A: Start by choosing a calm, private moment. Lead with care by letting him know you value your health and his. Honesty and a gentle tone can help open the door to meaningful conversation.

Q: What if my partner avoids talking about pregnancy or sexual health?

A: If he isn’t ready to talk, don’t give up. Sometimes it helps to suggest setting aside a specific time. You can also invite him to join you at a women’s health provider consultation so you both hear the same information together.

Q: How do I ask my partner about STI testing?

A: Keep the focus on care and protection for both of you. Consider framing it as a shared step, rather than a demand. Ivy Women’s Center offers free STD testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea on the first and third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. by appointment. Testing is offered to females 15 and up and males ages 15-19.

Q: Can Ivy Women’s Center help me talk to my partner?

A: Yes. Our team is here to provide information, answer questions, and support you both in navigating your next steps. You’re welcome to bring your partner with you to your appointment.