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.

Am I Eligible for the Abortion Pill?

If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and considering the abortion pill, it’s important to know that eligibility depends on more than just a positive test. An ultrasound and a medical assessment are often the first steps in determining if the abortion pill is a safe or effective option for you.

At Ivy Women’s Center, we offer no-cost, confidential pregnancy services to help you get clarity before you decide what’s next.

What Determines Abortion Pill Eligibility?

There are three major factors that impact whether you’re eligible for the abortion pill:

1. How Far Along You Are

The FDA has approved the use of the abortion pill (also called medication abortion) through 10 weeks of pregnancy. An ultrasound is the most reliable way to date your pregnancy and determine how far along you are.

2. Where the Pregnancy Is Located

The abortion pill only works for pregnancies located inside the uterus. If the pregnancy is ectopic (growing outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube), the abortion pill won’t work—and taking it could be dangerous. An ultrasound can rule out this condition.

3. Whether the Pregnancy Is Developing Normally

Sometimes, a pregnancy ends on its own without the need for any procedure. Studies estimate that up to 1 in 4 pregnancies end in natural miscarriage. Even if you still have pregnancy symptoms or a positive test, an ultrasound may reveal that the pregnancy is not viable—meaning an abortion may not be necessary.

Other Health Factors to Consider

Even if your pregnancy falls within the 10-week window and is located in the uterus, certain health conditions may make you ineligible for the abortion pill. These can include:

An IUD currently in place
A bleeding or blood clotting disorder
Chronic adrenal failure
Long-term use of corticosteroids
An allergy to the medications used
No access to emergency care
Inability to return for a follow-up appointment

A medical professional can evaluate these risks and help determine the safest path forward.

What Should I Do First?

Before taking the abortion pill, it’s important to:

Confirm your pregnancy with a lab-quality test
Get a limited ultrasound to check viability, location, and gestational age
Review your medical history and talk with a provider

You’re Not Alone—We Can Help

At Ivy Women’s Center, we offer free pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds to help you understand your options. If you’re unsure about your next step, we’re here to listen, support you, and help you move forward—without pressure or judgment.

Call or text (440) 539-0206 or schedule online to connect with us today.

Schedule a Consultation

FAQs: Abortion Pill Eligibility

Q: How do I know if I’m too far along for the abortion pill?

A: The only way to accurately determine how far along you are is through an ultrasound. The abortion pill is FDA-approved up to 10 weeks (70 days) from your last menstrual period.

Q: Can I take the abortion pill if I’m having an ectopic pregnancy?

A: No. The abortion pill does not work on ectopic pregnancies. These require immediate medical attention.

Q: What happens if I’m already miscarrying?

A: An ultrasound can detect a miscarriage, even if your pregnancy test is still positive. If you are miscarrying naturally, the abortion pill may not be needed.

Q: Can I get the abortion pill without an ultrasound?

A: Some providers offer abortion pills by mail, but without an ultrasound to confirm the details of your pregnancy, it’s hard to know if the pregnancy is within the eligible timeframe. An ultrasound provides clarity and safety.