How to Prepare for an Abortion Pill
If you’re pregnant and thinking about abortion, you’ve probably heard of the abortion pill as an option. However, before proceeding with a medical abortion, there are a few important factors to confirm and consider before taking the medication. Need answers now? Text or speak anonymously with a nurse for free at (785) 242-4500.
Medical Abortion Checklist
1. Be Certain YOu Are Actually Pregnant
This may seem like an obvious one, but in the worry of the moment, it's easy to jump ahead and act before confirming pregnancy with a lab-quality pregnancy test and ultrasound.
You should never take the abortion pill without being pregnant, and you should always take the medication under the supervision of a medical professional.
2. Know the Status and Stage of Fetal Development
About 10%-20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage.1 A positive pregnancy test suggests pregnancy, but an ultrasound is crucial to confirm the health and viability of the pregnancy, ensuring it has not resulted in a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy.2
It also provides crucial information about the fetus's age and development. The FDA has approved the abortion pill for use through 70 days gestation,3 making an ultrasound necessary to ensure you are within this timeframe.
3. Make Sure THis is YOur Decision
Carrying is a significant commitment that affects everyone around you. As a result, you may be hearing conflicting opinions about whether to continue your pregnancy or choose abortion.
Ultimately, the decision is yours alone. No one—whether it’s your partner, friends, or family—has the right to pressure or force you into having an abortion. You are legally protected from being coerced into making that choice against your will.
If you feel pressured or threatened into having an abortion, know that support is available. LifeCare Center provides professional, safe, and confidential assistance to help you navigate this decision. Our team is here to answer your questions anonymously and provide accurate information about the abortion pill and all your options.
4. Know The Risks
Having an abortion is a significant physical, emotional, and spiritual experience, and it comes with certain risks that should be carefully considered.
One critical step before undergoing an abortion is to test for and treat any sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that you may unknowingly have. This is essential to reducing the risk of the infection spreading. During a surgical abortion, the cervix is opened, which can increase the likelihood of an untreated STI spreading to other parts of the reproductive system. For instance, untreated chlamydia can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), potentially causing complications such as ectopic pregnancies or infertility.4
It’s also important to understand that abortion is a permanent decision. Taking the time to feel confident and secure in your choice is vital before proceeding. After the procedure, some individuals may experience emotional or spiritual distress, including feelings of regret or sadness. Seeking support and guidance can help you navigate these complex emotions.
Abortion Consultation Services
If you have any questions or you're ready to talk about the abortion pill and your options in a safe, professional, and confidential space, LifeCare Center is here for you. We offer a variety of free services, including pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and options consulting.
To get started, schedule a consultation, or send us a text at (785) 242-4500 and get a real certified nurse to guide you through the process.
Sources:
1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-loss-miscarriage/symptoms-causes
2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/9704-ultrasound-in-pregnancy
3.https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/information-about-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation
4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352594