Is an Online Abortion or At-Home Abortion Safe?

An unexpected pregnancy brings new unknowns, which can send you scrambling for a safe and convenient option. Read this article for more understanding of essential health screenings before taking an abortion drug.

When opting to order the abortion pill online, it is crucial to weigh the potential consequences carefully. One significant drawback is the omission of vital medical screenings, such as a positive pregnancy test and an ultrasound.

Why is an ultrasound so important? It helps confirm how far along the pregnancy is (gestational age). The abortion pill is only FDA-approved for pregnancies through 10 weeks gestational age.

Without an ultrasound, you risk taking abortion medication too late. An ultrasound can also spot life-threatening complications like an ectopic pregnancy, which abortion drugs cannot treat.

Considering 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, it's wise to confirm the pregnancy's viability (growing with a detectable heartbeat) to see if you even qualify for the abortion pill.

Once you've had an ultrasound and determined it is non-ectopic and viable, there are still several situations that disqualify you from the abortion pill method. According to the Mayo Clinic, these include:

• Have an intrauterine device (IUD)
• Have certain medical conditions
• Take a blood thinner or specific steroid medicines
• Unable to access emergency care or make follow-up appointments with your primary provider
• Allergic to abortion medication

Just like any other medical procedure, there are always some risks that come with a medical abortion. According to the Mayo Clinic, some of these risks can be:

• Incomplete abortion, which may require a follow-up surgery
• An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the abortion is unsuccessful
• Heavy and prolonged bleeding
• Infection
• Fever
• Digestive system discomfort

If you're unsure if you want to proceed with an abortion without taking recommended health screenings, take the next step with Choices Options for Women's Health!

We provide free pregnancy services, including pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and options consultations.

No insurance is needed. In a safe, compassionate space, you can learn more about your pregnancy and get connected to local resources.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment!