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.

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.

How Do I Know If I Am Pregnant? | Ivy Women’s Center

Q: 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.

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Understanding Early Pregnancy Symptoms

Discovering that you might be pregnant can be an overwhelming experience, filled with a range of emotions. If you find yourself wondering, “Am I pregnant?” take a deep breath and know that you aren’t alone: Ivy Women’s Center is here to help and support you without judgment.

Missed Period

One of the most common signs of pregnancy is a missed period. If your menstrual cycle is regular, a missed period can be a strong indicator that you may be pregnant. However, it’s important to note that stress, illness, or changes in weight can also affect your menstrual cycle.

Morning Sickness

Nausea and vomiting, often referred to as morning sickness, can occur at any time of the day. While not all women experience morning sickness, it is a prevalent early pregnancy symptom. If you find yourself feeling queasy often, especially in the morning, it might be worth considering a pregnancy test.

Breast Changes

Pregnancy can cause hormonal fluctuations that lead to changes in your breasts, such as tenderness and swelling. These changes can occur as early as a few weeks into pregnancy.

Fatigue

Feeling unusually tired or experiencing fatigue is another common early sign of pregnancy. Hormonal changes, increased blood production, and other factors contribute to this feeling of exhaustion.

Frequent Urination

As your body undergoes changes in early pregnancy, increased blood flow to the pelvic area and hormonal shifts can lead to more frequent trips to the bathroom. If you notice an increase in urination without an apparent cause, it might be an early pregnancy symptom.

Think You Might Be Pregnant?

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and suspect you may be pregnant, it is very important to take a pregnancy test. We recommend waiting until at least one week after a missed period to buy and take an over-the-counter pregnancy test, which can increase the accuracy of the results.

Once you have a positive result on an at-home pregnancy test, the next step is to confirm it with lab-quality testing and an ultrasound. Both testing and limited ultrasounds are provided at no cost at Ivy Women’s Center in Mentor.