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.

Abortion Information, Free Ultrasounds in Mentor, OH

Should You Talk to Someone Before Making an Abortion Decision?

If you think you might be pregnant and are considering abortion, it’s normal to have questions. Ivy Women’s Center in Mentor, OH provides no-cost pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds so you can better understand your situation and next steps. Our team offers a calm, supportive space where you can ask questions and get clear information.

What to Know About Abortion in Ohio

Abortion laws in Ohio have changed quite a bit over recent years, which can make it hard to know what applies to you right now. The timeline, type of procedure, and requirements may vary depending on how far along the pregnancy is.

If you’re unsure where to start, an abortion consultation can help you understand:

Your pregnancy timeline
What options may be available to you in Ohio
What to expect physically
Important health and safety considerations

👉 You can learn more on our Abortion Consultation page.

What Are the Different Types of Abortion?

There are two primary types of abortion procedures. The type you choose to have could be affected by how far along you are in pregnancy.

Abortion Pill (Medical Abortion)

Uses two medications to end a pregnancy

FDA-approved for pregnancies up to 10 weeks

Taken in stages over several days

In-Clinic Procedure

Typically performed later in pregnancy

Involves a medical procedure in a clinical setting

Method depends on gestational age

👉 Learn more about the Abortion Pill

👉 Learn more about Abortion Procedures

Why Does Timing Matter

Understanding how far along you are is an important step before making a decision.
Here’s why:

Determines what options may be available
Helps estimate how your body may respond
Confirms whether the pregnancy is developing

How to Find Out How Far Along You Are

The most reliable way to determine how far along you are is through an ultrasound.

A limited ultrasound can confirm:

Gestational age (how far along you are)
Pregnancy location (whether it is in the uterus)
Whether the pregnancy is progressing

This information can help you better understand your situation before moving forward.

👉 Learn more about why an ultrasound matter before abortion

What to Expect at Ivy Women’s Center (Mentor, OH)

If you schedule an appointment, here’s what a typical visit may look like:

Step 1: Pregnancy Testing

A medical-grade pregnancy test is provided at no cost.

Step 2: Ultrasound (if eligible)

A limited ultrasound may be offered to more accurately assess details about your pregnancy.

Step 3: Talk Through Your Questions

You’ll have space to ask questions, process, and talk through your thoughts.

Pregnancy tests and limited ultrasounds at Ivy Women’s Center are administered by licensed medical professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I get an ultrasound before an abortion?

An ultrasound can provide important details about how far along you are and confirm the location of the pregnancy. This information helps you better understand your options.

How early can I take the abortion pill?

The abortion pill is FDA-approved for use up to 10 weeks of pregnancy. Dating the pregnancy accurately with an ultrasound can help clarify timing.

Do I need an appointment?

Appointments are recommended so you can be seen promptly. You can call, text, or request a visit online.

How much do services cost?

Pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds at Ivy Women’s Center are provided at no cost.

Ivy Women’s Center Is Here for You

Ivy Women’s Center in Mentor, Ohio, is here to provide information and support in a safe, confidential setting.

Call or text 440-539-0206 or request an appointment online to get started.

Schedule Your Free Appointment

This blog was updated on 5/27/26

Why Talk to Us About Abortion?