If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, prioritize your health and safety by considering the risks before you decide to order the abortion pill online.
You May Not Be Eligible for the Abortion Pill
Not all pregnancies are eligible for the abortion pill (medical abortion). The age and location of the pregnancy and your health history determine whether you qualify for the abortion pill. Taking the abortion pill if you are not eligible can cause serious health issues.
Age of the Pregnancy
Before a medical abortion, an ultrasound should be performed by a licensed medical provider to ensure that the age of your pregnancy is appropriate for the use of the abortion pill.
According to the FDA, the abortion pill should not be taken if you have been pregnant for more than 10 weeks. Taking the abortion pill after 10 weeks increases your risk of an incomplete abortion.
Location of the Pregnancy
In order to qualify for the abortion pill, your pregnancy must be within your uterus. An ectopic pregnancy, when the embryo implants outside of the uterus, will not respond to the abortion pill and requires emergency medical attention.
Pre-existing Risk Factors
Before having a medical abortion, your health history should be discussed thoroughly with a medical provider.
The pre-existing conditions that may limit your eligibility for a medical abortion include:
- Having an intrauterine device (IUD)
- Can’t make follow-up visits to your doctor
- Can’t access emergency care
- Taking a blood thinner or certain steroid medications
- Having an allergy to the medications used during a medical abortion
- Having certain medical issues such as bleeding disorders, heart or blood vessel diseases, severe lung, liver, or kidney disease, or an uncontrolled seizure disorder
Warnings from the FDA
The FDA has cautioned women about ordering the abortion pill online, in large part because you cannot be sure you are receiving the drug quality and drug dosage that was advertised to you.
It’s also important to know that, in several states, there can be legal limitations to ordering the abortion pill online.
Before Ordering the Abortion Pill
Speaking with a medical provider prior to having a medical abortion is essential to protect your health.
The medical staff at Options Care Center can provide you with an ultrasound to determine the age and location of your pregnancy. At your appointment, you can discuss your personal health history, get your questions answered, and hear more about your options.
Contact us today to set up a confidential, no-cost appointment.
