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.

A Guide to Understanding the Abortion Pill | Ivy Women's Center

The abortion pill uses specific drugs to terminate a pregnancy.

While known by various names such as at-home abortion, chemical abortion, self-managed abortion, and others, all these terms essentially refer to the same method of terminating a pregnancy using drugs.

Are you facing an unplanned pregnancy? Would you like to talk with someone as you navigate the decisions ahead of you? Contact us at Ivy Women’s Center to discuss your options and get the support you need.

Continue reading for more on the abortion pill.

How Does the Abortion Pill Work?

The abortion pill process involves taking two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol, taken in succession. Mifepristone, given at a doctor’s office, blocks the hormone progesterone to effectively end the pregnancy.

Following this, you will be sent home with a prescription of misoprostol. This causes uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy at home. You will likely experience cramping and bleeding.

Considerations Regarding Timing And Safety

The FDA approves the abortion pill for pregnancies through ten weeks gestation. You will need to know how far along your pregnancy is before considering this option.

An ultrasound is essential in dating your pregnancy and determining viability by checking for miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy.

It’s crucial to be aware and to make your physician aware of any health conditions before opting for this method. Undergoing STI testing and reviewing any ongoing medications with a medical professional is also advised.

Prioritize Your Health at Ivy Women’s Center

Prioritize your health by consulting with medical professionals and ensuring you undergo all necessary screenings, such as pregnancy testing, STD testing, and an ultrasound to gain comprehensive insights into your health status.

Ivy Women’s Center offers these services at no cost, ensuring you receive the support you need. Reach out to us for a confidential consultation.

Last updated: November 28, 2023

How Does the Abortion Pill Work?

Considerations Regarding Timing And Safety

Prioritize Your Health at Ivy Women’s Center

Leave a Reply Cancel reply