How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
Although it’s referred to as a pill (singular), the abortion pill actually consists of two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol.
During pregnancy, the body produces a hormone called progesterone, which helps the embryo develop. Mifepristone blocks the body from producing progesterone and stops the growth of the embryo. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the fetus, which ends the pregnancy.
Mifepristone is taken first, usually in a clinic. Misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours later at home. After both pills have been taken, you will experience cramping and heavy bleeding, which empties the uterus.
How Late Can You Take the Abortion Pill?
You shouldn’t take the abortion pill if you’re more than 10 weeks pregnant[1]. This is because the abortion pill becomes less effective the farther along you are. If you take the abortion pill beyond that point, you could experience serious complications and may need emergency surgery to complete the procedure.
Do I Need a Prescription for the Abortion Pill? Can I Get the Abortion Pill Over the Counter?
In order to take the abortion pill, the FDA requires a prescription from a qualified physician for your personal safety[1]. The abortion pill isn’t available over the counter for that reason.
Can I Order the Abortion Pill Online?
It’s unsafe to order the abortion pill online. Under Texas law, it is illegal to provide abortion pills or abortion-inducing drugs by mail[2].
Additionally, the FDA advises against it. Many online abortion pill providers are located overseas, so the pills they provide may not meet FDA standards[3]. These pills could be counterfeit, expired, or even tampered with! It’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid ordering the abortion pill online.
Abortion Pill Information in Fort Worth, TX
When those two lines first appear, it can be easy to panic. Don’t let fear make the final decision for you! Get the care and support you deserve at Women's Choice Clinic! We offer free pregnancy resources, so you can make an empowered decision for your unplanned pregnancy:
- Free pregnancy tests
- Free ultrasounds
- A safe, non-judgemental place to explore your unplanned pregnancy options and share what’s on your mind
Give us a call at (817) 736-1905 or schedule your free appointment today. All services are confidential and free of charge!
Please be aware that Women's Choice Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources
1. Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (2021, December 16). Mifeprex (Mifepristone). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifeprex-mifepristone-information
2. Texas Legislature. (2021, August 31). S.B. No. 4. Texas Legislature Online. Retrieved from https://capitol.texas.gov/tlodocs/872/billtext/pdf/SB00004F.pdf
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