If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, you’re likely weighing all your options—including the abortion pill. Also called medical abortion or chemical abortion, this method uses a combination of drugs to end an early pregnancy. Before making any decisions, it’s important to understand how the abortion pill works, who it’s intended for, and what the health considerations may be.
At FirstLook Center, we offer pregnancy confirmation services and information about your options in a caring and confidential environment. Contact us to learn how we can support you as you weigh your options.
How Medical Abortion Works
The abortion pill actually involves taking two drugs to end the pregnancy. The first drug, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone, which your body needs to sustain a pregnancy. Without it, the pregnancy cannot continue.
The second drug, misoprostol, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue. This process includes cramping and bleeding and is FDA-approved for pregnancies up to 10 weeks gestation. Taking these drugs beyond that point may increase the risk of complications and lead to an incomplete abortion.
Who Is Eligible?
Not everyone is eligible for the abortion pill. According to the Mayo Clinic, it may not be safe if any of the following apply to you:
- You have an IUD in place.
- You have a suspected ectopic pregnancy.
- You have certain medical conditions (including bleeding disorders, severe liver, kidney, or lung disease, heart issues, or adrenal failure)
- You take blood thinners or specific steroid medications.
- You are allergic to any of the drugs used.
- You don’t have access to emergency medical care.
That’s why it’s so important to meet with a trusted medical provider who can review your medical history and confirm important pregnancy details before you make a decision.
Why an Ultrasound Is So Important
An ultrasound is one of the best ways to learn about your pregnancy. An ultrasound can determine how far along you are, confirm the location of the pregnancy (to rule out ectopic pregnancy), and check for a fetal heartbeat. This information matters when considering your options and protecting your health.
We’re Here to Help
At FirstLook Center, we provide free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and education on all your options. You’ll meet with a caring team who will answer your questions and support you—without pressure or judgment.
Schedule a free, confidential appointment today. You deserve to feel heard, cared for, and fully informed.
FirstLook Center does not perform or refer for abortions.
All abortion information in this blog is based on medically accurate sources at the time of writing.