The Abortion Pill
How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
The abortion pill (also known as medication abortion) usually consists of two pills: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone is taken first. It cuts the supply of the hormone progesterone to the embryo, which is needed to maintain the pregnancy. Without a steady supply of progesterone, the embryo stops growing and eventually dies. Misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours later and causes the embryo to be expelled.How Late Can You Take the Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill is only FDA-approved for up to 10 weeks from your last menstrual period[1]. If you take the abortion pill later on in your pregnancy, the risk of serious complications increases. You may need emergency surgery to complete the procedure if it fails or is incomplete[2].Is Abortion Legal in California?
As of March 2024, abortion is legal in California up until fetal viability, which usually occurs around 24 to 26 weeks of pregnancy. Exceptions can be made after viability if the mother’s life or health is in danger[3]. Although California law doesn’t require it, we strongly recommend receiving an ultrasound before taking the abortion pill.Can I Get Abortion Pills Over the Counter?
No, a prescription from a provider or physician who is registered to prescribe the abortion pills is necessary. However, the FDA does permit pharmacies to become certified to dispense the abortion pill with a proper prescription[1].Can I Order the Abortion Pill Online?
The FDA advises against ordering the abortion pill online. Many online abortion pill providers are located overseas, so the pills they provide may not meet FDA standards[4]. These pills could be counterfeit, expired, or even tampered with.Pregnancy Confirmation Services in Escondido, CA
When those two lines first appear, it can be easy to panic. Don’t let fear make the final decision for you! Get care and support at Alternatives Medical Clinic (AMC). We offer free pregnancy services, so you can make an empowered decision for your pregnancy. Request your free appointment online today. All services are confidential and free of charge. Schedule Your Appointment!Other Abortion Pill Information
Is An At Home Abortion Safe?
An unplanned pregnancy often brings a sense of a loss of control. So, some women try an abortion at home because it seems like an easy way to regain control and end their pregnancy. Abortions at home have risks and considerations. Before making a quick decision, consider your options so you can make an informed … Continued
Can I Have an Abortion with Misoprostol Only?
If you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and researching your options, you may have discovered the recent legal battles concerning the abortion pill. All of the information can feel overwhelming, especially as you try to decide what step to take next. Here’s everything you need to know about the two pills used in abortion. What … Continued
Extra Abortion Pills
Every year, millions of women experience unplanned pregnancies. Sometimes women offer their friends advice or practical help with their pregnancy, and even offer a friend her abortion pills. But taking another woman’s abortion pills or medication could be extremely dangerous! When faced with an unplanned pregnancy, it’s crucial to get all the facts, so … Continued
Sources
- FDA. (2023, September 1). Questions and Answers on Mifeprex. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifeprex
- Mifepristone Tablets (Termination of Pregnancy). Cleveland Clinic. (2024). Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/23726-mifepristone-tablets-termination-of-pregnancy
- Proclamation on Reproductive Freedom. (2019, May 31). Retrieved from https://www.gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Proclamation-on-Reproductive-Freedom.pdf
- https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifeprex-mifepristone-information