Abortion Pill Dosages, Expiration Dates, and More

If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, you may be considering the abortion pill. 

Perhaps you have a friend with unused  abortion pills that are expired or you’ve thought about ordering them online. You’re wondering if it’s safe to use them, or if they would still work? While these might seem like quick and effective solutions, they pose significant risks to your health and safety! 

Before doing something that could jeopardize your health, get all the facts so you can make an informed decision for your unplanned pregnancy. Keep reading to learn more.

The most important thing you can do for your health before taking steps to end your pregnancy is to find out for sure if you are pregnant, and if it’s inside the uterus and growing. The best way to do this is by getting an ultrasound to confirm your pregnancy. 

Taking abortion pills without knowing this could be dangerous for your health–what if you’re further along than you thought, or have an ectopic pregnancy (one that is growing outside the uterus-this can be life-threatening and won’t be ended by the abortion drugs)? The risks are significantly increased in these situations. Pregnancy centers provide this vital service–at no charge. 

Call us now to learn more and to find a center near you.

Can I Use My Friend’s Extra Abortion Pills?

It’s illegal and unsafe to share any kind of prescription medication with others, especially the abortion pill.

Physicians, and other healthcare professionals who are authorized to write prescriptions, obtain their patient’s health history before recommending medication. They discover if the patient has any health conditions, allergies, or is taking other medicines that could be negatively affected by the prescription.

In addition, the FDA has certain requirements in place before a healthcare provider may prescribe the abortion pill, due to the associated risks.¹

Do Abortion Pill Dosages Change Per Person?

The FDA label instructions for mifepristone/misoprostol abortion regimen describes the recommended dosing for pregnancies up to 70 days from a woman’s last menstrual period.²

Currently, the toxic dose of misoprostol is unknown.³ It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s orders to avoid an overdose.

Do Abortion Pills Expire?

Yes, abortion pills do expire. The Food and Drug Administration cautions against using expired medications because they may no longer have the intended effect, or they may have degraded, and/or turned into toxic compounds with potentially harmful results.⁴

Can You Order the Abortion Pill Online?

Ordering the abortion pill online can be very risky. As you search, you may come across companies who claim to deliver the abortion pill by mail. However, many of these providers are located overseas and the pills they provide may not be FDA-approved. They could be fake, expired, the wrong dosage, or even laced with harmful substances.⁵

Most importantly, you need to be in touch with a prescribing physician if complications arise. Taking the abortion pill, especially without medical oversight, can lead to complications including⁶:

• Severe infection
• Missed ectopic pregnancy, which can be life-threatening
• Heavy bleeding that may require a surgical scraping to stop it

It’s crucial to be evaluated by a licensed healthcare professional after taking the abortion drugs, to be checked for complications and completeness of the procedure.

What Happens if the Abortion Pill Doesn’t Work?

​​Sometimes the abortion pill doesn’t work at all. This is called a failed medical abortion, which occurs in about 2-8% of cases depending on how far along the pregnancy is.⁷ Some signs that may indicate possible complications and or that the abortion pill didn’t work include⁸:

• No bleeding at all after taking the drugs
• Prolonged or heavy bleeding
• Belly pain that does not go away after a few days of taking the Misoprostol
• Fever
• Weakness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or feeling sick for more than 24 hours after taking mifepristone

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you’ll need immediate follow-up medical care, which typically involves either taking additional medication or having a surgical procedure to complete the abortion.

It’s crucial to communicate regularly with your healthcare provider after taking the abortion pill so they can monitor your progress through follow-up appointments and address any complications promptly.

What are My Unplanned Pregnancy Options?

When that pregnancy test comes back positive, you may feel backed into a corner. Don’t let fear make the final decision for you. You owe it to yourself to make an informed and empowered decision!

While does not provide or refer for abortion services, we are a safe place where you can ask questions without judgment. We can also connect you with a local pregnancy center that provides free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and abortion information, so you can make the best decision for your health and future.

All of the Facts. None of the Judgment.

You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers. If you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, you’re not alone! is here to help you make an informed and empowered decision.

Ready to take the next step? Give us a call to get started.

Please be aware that Pregnancy Decision Line does not provide or refer for abortion services.

The Truth About Getting the Abortion Pill Through Telehealth

With the rise of virtual healthcare, getting the abortion pill through telehealth has become increasingly common. Many women search online for how to get the abortion pill online or explore telehealth abortion options, but should you get abortion pills online? How safe is it? What risks are involved? And why is it important to talk to a medical professional in person?

Let’s break it all down.

What Is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill, also called a medication abortion, involves taking two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. These work together to end a pregnancy and are FDA-approved for use up to 10 weeks (70 days) from the start of your last menstrual period.¹

Can a Telehealth Professional Prescribe Abortion Pills?

It depends.

In states where abortion is legal, you may be able to have a virtual appointment with an abortion provider who is licensed in your state.

In states where abortion is illegal, so is telehealth abortion access, including across state lines. Attempting to access abortion services outside of the United States is very risky. FDA regulations don’t apply and there is no way to be certain if the medications are authentic or tested.²

Click the button below to learn more about your state’s abortion laws.

The ultrasound can determine how far along you are in your pregnancy. This is important to know, as you can only take the abortion pill for up to 10 weeks from your last menstrual period.

Taking the abortion pill beyond the FDA approved limits increases the risk of serious complications that may require hospital visits and emergency surgery.^{3, 4} Also, it becomes less effective the farther along you are meaning that you may still be pregnant after taking the pills.

An ultrasound exam can identify if there is a viable pregnancy in the uterus–this is important information because a significant number of pregnancies end naturally in miscarriage and a small number are ectopic. Ectopic pregnancies grow outside the uterus and can be life-threatening, plus, they will not be ended by the abortion pill. Knowing this vital information will help you make a fully informed decision and may save your life.

Can You Get the Abortion Pill Online?

In states where telemedicine abortion is legal, you can  get the abortion pill online from a certified pharmacy after a certified abortion provider in has prescribed it to you. Telemedicine/online abortion is not legally available In states where abortion is outlawed.

Additionally, ordering the abortion pill online from unregulated sources is risky. The FDA warns against purchasing abortion pills from overseas or unverified online platforms, as these pills may be expired, counterfeit, or contaminated.⁵

The Risks of Getting the Abortion Pill Online Without Seeing a Medical Professional

The abortion pill may seem like a private and convenient solution to an unplanned pregnancy, but convenient doesn’t mean risk-free. While many people search “how to get the abortion pill without seeing a doctor” or “abortion pill online no appointment,” skipping medical consultation can carry some real risks:

1. Medical Contraindications: 

You should not take the abortion pill if you are allergic to the medication, have a blood clotting disorder, or have an IUD in place.⁶

2. Missed Pregnancy Complications

Without an in-person consultation and ultrasound to confirm an intrauterine pregnancy, it’s easy to miss signs of a miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or other pregnancy complications. Ectopic pregnancies are uncommon, but may be life-threatening and cannot be treated with the abortion pill.

3. Incorrect Timing

Per the FDA, the abortion pill can only be used up through 10 weeks of a woman’s last menstrual period. Without knowing how far along you are, you could be taking it too late, increasing the risk of complications, including an incomplete or failed abortion.⁷ An ultrasound can help you determine how far along you actually are.

4. Unverified Medications

The FDA discourages women from ordering abortion pills online without a healthcare professional’s oversight and prescription. Ordering pills from unlicensed or overseas websites bypasses important safety measures and puts you at risk of getting counterfeit or ineffective medication.⁸

5. Lack of Emotional Support

An in-person consultation allows you to talk through your options, ask questions, and get emotional support. If you order abortion pills by mail, this part of the process can be missing.

6. Lack of Support During the Abortion

During an abortion, questions may arise about pain level, amount of bleeding, and recovery. If you order abortion pills online, then you likely won’t have anyone to guide you through the process or to answer your questions.

7. Lack of Follow-Up After the Abortion

Every woman who takes the abortion pill should receive follow-up care to evaluate for complications. So, if you obtain abortion pills online, it may be difficult to find follow-up care.

The Risks of a Telemedicine Abortion Appointment

A telemedicine abortion appointment may feel more convenient and private. But, this appointment style does not allow an abortion provider to make a clear diagnosis of an intrauterine pregnancy and confirm your gestational age with an ultrasound, or to evaluate for a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

Before you speak with a telehealth provider, contact Pregnancy Decision Line. We offer nonjudgmental education on abortion and other pregnancy options, emotional support, and pregnancy decision help. We can also connect you with a local pregnancy center that provides free ultrasounds, so you can make the best decision for your health and future.

Why You Need to Talk to a Medical Professional in Person

If you’re thinking about using an online service for the abortion pill, the best first step is to talk with a qualified healthcare professional in person. Here’s why that matters:

• They can confirm how far along you are in your pregnancy.
• You’ll learn about what to expect, including risks and side effects.
• They can also help you understand your state’s laws around telemedicine abortions to make sure you’re staying within legal limits.

Considering Buying the Abortion Pill Online? Contact Pregnancy Decision Line First.

The rise in abortion services has made the abortion pill more accessible, but increased access doesn’t always mean increased safety. The abortion pill is a serious medical decision that deserves personal attention and support.

Before you order the abortion pill online, we strongly encourage you to reach out and speak with someone first. There are risks involved—physically, emotionally, and legally—and you don’t have to navigate them alone. is here to provide accurate information, answer your questions without judgment, and help you make a fully informed decision.

Ready to take the next step? We can connect you with a local pregnancy center that provides free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and abortion information, so you can make the best decision for your health and future.

Please be aware that Pregnancy Decision Line does not provide or refer for abortion services.

What to Expect When You Take the Abortion Pill

The abortion pill may seem like a quick and effective solution to an unplanned pregnancy. However, like any medical procedure, it comes with risks and side effects you need to be aware of.

Before you take the pill, take time to get the facts. Keep reading to learn more about what to expect when you take the abortion pill.

How Does the Abortion Pill Work?

The abortion pill (also known as medication abortion) actually 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 to 48 hours later.¹

It’s important to know that the FDA has only approved the abortion pill up to 10 weeks of gestation.² Before taking the abortion pill, you should receive an ultrasound to determine how far along you are and whether you’re at risk for a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. In either case, abortion is no longer an option to consider.

How Long Does the Abortion Pill Take to Work?

Mifepristone is usually taken in an abortion clinic, while misoprostol is taken 24 to 48 hours later at home.³ The bleeding and cramping will begin between 2 to 24 hours after taking misoprostol.⁴ Most women expel the pregnancy within that same timeframe.⁵

How Long Does Bleeding Last After Taking the Abortion Pill?

Vaginal bleeding typically begins around two hours after taking misoprostol.⁶ It can last for about 9 to 16 days, but it could go on for up to 30 days or longer.⁷

How Much Bleeding is Normal After an Abortion?

The amount of bleeding you experience after abortion depends on how far along you were in your pregnancy.

That being said, the abortion pill tends to cause more bleeding compared to surgical abortions.⁸

Abortion Pill Side Effects

Like any medical procedure, the abortion pill does have some risks and side effects. Common side effects include⁹:

• Spotting or bleeding that can last up to a month
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea and digestive pain
• Chills
• Fever
• Abdominal cramping

Severe abortion pill side effects include:

• Hemorrhaging. It’s normal to bleed for a while after taking the abortion pill. However, heavy bleeding known as hemorrhaging could occur requiring surgical intervention.¹⁰
• Incomplete abortion. Incomplete abortions occur when some pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus after misoprostol has been taken. Emergency surgery may be needed to remove the remaining tissue and to prevent infection.¹¹
• Infection. If you experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or a fever for more than 24 hours after taking the second medication, an infection may have developed. You may need antibiotics or even surgery to treat your condition.¹²

When to Call Your Doctor

It’s important to recognize the warning signs of hemorrhaging and infection after taking the abortion pill. Contact your doctor right away if you experience any of the following¹³:

• Heavy bleeding. If you experience heavy bleeding or hemorrhaging (as mentioned above), you may need a surgical procedure to stop the bleeding.
• Persistent pain or sickness. Abdominal pain, weakness, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (with or without a fever) for more than 24 hours after taking misoprostol may be signs of an infection or ectopic pregnancy.
• Fever. A fever of 100.4°F or higher that lasts for more than 4 hours after taking misoprostol may be a sign of an infection. Women who experience sustained fever for more than 24 hours after taking misoprostol may have a serious infection and should seek medical care right away.¹⁴

Get the Facts on the Abortion Pill at Pregnancy Decision Line

We understand—an unplanned pregnancy can be scary. But, you should never let fear drive your choices!

Pregnancy Decision Line can connect you with a local pregnancy center that provides free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and abortion information, so you can make the best decision for your health and future.

All of our services are 100% free and confidential. We exist to provide accurate medical information and support to women and men facing an unplanned pregnancy. Our pregnancy centers do not offer or refer for pregnancy terminations or birth control. Information is provided as an educational service and should not be relied on as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.

Can You Buy Abortion Pills Over the Counter?

If pregnancy wasn’t a part of your plan, you may be looking for a private and easy way to end it. You may be wondering if you can pick up abortion pills over the counter at your local pharmacy.

In today’s blog, we’ll discuss whether you can get abortion pills over the counter and what you need to know before moving forward. Keep reading to learn more.

Are Abortion Pills Available Over the Counter?

Over the counter medications do not require a prescription and can be used by individuals without the involvement of a healthcare provider.¹ However, abortion pills do require a prescription and oversight by a healthcare provider, so abortion pills are not available over the counter.

Per the FDA, mifepristone and misoprostol (the two pills used in the abortion pill protocol) must be prescribed by a certified healthcare provider.² Only a pharmacy that is specifically certified to dispense the abortion pill drugs is permitted to do so.

The FDA cautions against using abortion pills purchased online from overseas unregulated pharmacies. These drugs haven’t been reviewed for safety or effectiveness meaning you have no way of knowing what you’re getting and they could be dangerous to your health.³

What Pharmacy Provides Abortion Pills Over the Counter?

As of 2024, only certified pharmacies provide abortion pills to women who have a prescription from a qualified physician. No pharmacy will provide the abortion pill over the counter.

What You Need to Know Before Taking the Abortion Pill

These are a few things you’ll want to know before you search for the abortion pill:

1. Estimated Gestational Age. Gestational age (how far along you are in pregnancy) can be estimated based on a woman’s last menstrual period, but this can be inaccurate. An ultrasound is a good way to determine a reliable gestational age.⁴
2. Location of the Pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy develops outside of the uterus and can be life-threatening if not properly treated. So, before taking abortion pills, it is recommended that a woman receive an ultrasound first to confirm the presence of a pregnancy inside the uterus.
3. Viability of Pregnancy. Almost 10-20% of known pregnancies end in a miscarriage, and almost 80% of those occur within the first three months of pregnancy.⁵

You should not take the abortion pill if⁶:

• You’re more than ten weeks pregnant.
• You have an IUD (Intrauterine Device).
• You have a clotting disorder or some other medical condition. Speak with a healthcare professional before an abortion.
• Don’t have access to emergency care. In the case that you experience complications after a medical abortion, you should have access to emergency care.

Call Pregnancy Decision Line today for a free appointment at 866-799-1726.

Get the Facts on the Abortion Pill at Pregnancy Decision Line

Making a decision about an unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Pregnancy Decision Line is here to help! We can connect you with a local pregnancy center that provides free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and abortion information, so you can make the best decision for your health and future.

All of our services are 100% free and confidential. We exist to provide accurate medical information and support to women and men facing an unplanned pregnancy. Our pregnancy centers do not offer or refer for pregnancy terminations or birth control. Information is provided as an educational service and should not be relied on as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.

How Does a Methotrexate Abortion Work?

We get it—unplanned pregnancy can be scary. But, it’s important to get all the facts so you can make a fully informed decision. In today’s blog, we’re exploring everything you need to know about Methotrexate abortion.

What is Methotrexate Used For?

Methotrexate is a drug that prevents the replication or growth of living cells. It can be used to treat several different conditions, including¹:

• Certain cancers
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Crohn’s disease
• Severe psoriasis
• Ectopic pregnancy^{2, 3}

The manufacturer’s label states that it should not be used in pregnancy, however, abortion providers also prescribe methotrexate in combination with misoprostol for the early termination of pregnancies up to seven weeks from a woman’s last menstrual period. However, the FDA has not officially approved the drug for abortion, making it off-label for this use.⁴

How Does a Methotrexate Abortion Work?

Methotrexate works by slowing the growth of cells.^{5, 6} In a Methotrexate abortion, the drug is administered to stop the pregnancy cells from growing. Misoprostol is taken afterward to expel the fetus from the uterus.^{7, 8}

Can Methotrexate Alone Cause Abortion?

Studies have found that taking methotrexate alone in early pregnancy increases the chance of abortion occurring, however, it is typically used along with misoprostol to increase the effectiveness.^{9, 10}

What are the Side Effects of a Methotrexate Abortion?

Possible side effects of a Methotrexate plus misoprostol abortion include¹¹:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Mouth sores
• Dizziness
• Birth abnormalities (if the abortion fails and the pregnancy is carried to term)
• Heavy bleeding
• Abdominal pain

The Methotrexate may also cause severe complications including hair loss, bone marrow suppression, and and organ impairment.¹²

What Do I Need to Know Before a Methotrexate Abortion?

Before a Methotrexate abortion, you should know the following:

• How far along you are. The most accurate way to determine gestational age is via an ultrasound.
• Your medical history. Methotrexate may be especially risky in women with certain medical conditions, including a history of kidney disease, liver problems, and significant alcohol use.^{13, 14, 15}
• Whether you’re willing to undergo surgery if the Methotrexate abortion is not successful.
• That you have access to emergency care if you experience severe side effects.

Get the Facts on Methotrexate Abortion at Pregnancy Decision Line

We understand how stressful an unplanned pregnancy can be. Pregnancy Decision Line is a safe place to ask questions, get the facts, and find support. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your health and future!

All of our services are 100% free and confidential. We exist to provide accurate medical information and support to women and men facing an unplanned pregnancy. Our pregnancy centers do not offer or refer for pregnancy terminations or birth control. Information is provided as an educational service and should not be relied on as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.

How Much Does the Abortion Pill Cost?

If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, you’ve probably got a lot of questions about how much the abortion pill costs. Does insurance cover the abortion pill? If not, what is the out-of-pocket cost? Can you get abortion pills over the counter? There are a lot of numbers to crunch and countless thoughts and feelings to sort through.

Before you take the pill, take time to get the facts. Keep reading to learn more about the cost of the abortion pill.

Does Insurance Cover the Abortion Pill?

It depends on where you live and what insurance plan you have. In states where abortion is legal, some private insurance plans may cover the abortion pill. In states where it is illegal, insurance plans will not cover it.

How Much Does the Abortion Pill Cost Without Insurance?

As of October 2024, the abortion pill can cost between $500 to $950 without insurance.¹ Prices may vary based on the dosage you need and the provider you purchase it from.

Can I Get Abortion Pills Over the Counter?

No, the abortion pills (mifepristone and misoprostol) are not available over the counter.

They are only available by prescription through certified providers in states where distribution is legal. Additionally, they can only be obtained from pharmacies that are certified to dispense them.²

Additional Abortion Pill Costs to Consider

Like any medical procedure, the abortion pill comes with expected side effects and potential complications. Examples include:

• Hemorrhaging. It’s normal to bleed for a while after taking the abortion pill. However, heavier bleeding, known as hemorrhaging, can happen and may require an emergency surgical procedure to stop it.³

• Incomplete abortion. Incomplete abortions occur when some pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus after misoprostol has been taken. Emergency surgery may be needed to remove the remaining tissue and prevent infection.⁴

• Infection. Women who experience abdominal pain, weakness, nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea, with or without a fever for more than 24 hours after taking the second medication (misoprostol), may have a serious infection and should seek medical care right away.⁵

What Do I Need to Do Before Taking the Abortion Pill?

We get it—finding out that you’re pregnant when you don’t want to be can be scary. It can be easy to spiral at a moment like this. We encourage you to take a deep breath and know that you aren’t alone. You owe it to yourself to make an informed and empowered decision!

Before taking the abortion pill, it’s important to receive an ultrasound and understand your pregnancy options.

Why Do I Need an Ultrasound?

Ultrasounds determine three key things about your pregnancy: location, viability, and gestational age.

Where Can Pregnancies Develop?

Most pregnancies grow and develop inside the mother’s uterus. A small number of pregnancies, known as ectopic pregnancies, develop outside the uterus.⁶ Not only can an ectopic pregnancy be life-threatening, but the abortion pill is not used to treat them.^7,8 An ultrasound can show if the pregnancy is inside the uterus.

What is Pregnancy Viability?

A viable pregnancy means that, in the early stages, growth and development are progressing as expected. For example, after about 6 weeks gestation, the fetal heartbeat can be detected by an ultrasound.⁹ This is critical information because a significant number of pregnancies end on their own in miscarriage.¹⁰

What is Gestational Age?

Gestational age refers to how far along you are in your pregnancy. It’s important to know your gestational age since the abortion pill is only FDA-approved for up to 10 weeks from your last menstrual period.¹¹

What are My Pregnancy Options?

In the chaos of an unplanned pregnancy, it can be easy to make a snap decision out of fear. It’s important to understand each of your pregnancy options, so you can make a decision you feel confident in. Pregnancy Decision Line is here to answer all of your questions regarding abortion, adoption, and parenting—all without judgment.

Get the Facts on the Abortion Pill at Pregnancy Decision Line

The risks associated with the abortion pill may be costly. Compassionate care is priceless. Pregnancy Decision Line is here to provide the insight and support you need to make an empowered decision for your unplanned pregnancy—all at no cost to you!

​

All of our services are 100% free and confidential. We exist to provide accurate medical information and support to women and men facing an unplanned pregnancy. Our pregnancy centers do not offer or refer for pregnancy terminations or birth control. Information is provided as an educational service and should not be relied on as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.

Can You Order the Abortion Pill by Mail?

How Does the Abortion Pill Work?

With the abortion pill, a woman takes medication to intentionally terminate her pregnancy. Abortion pills may also be called RU-486, Medication Abortion, Medical Abortion, Chemical Abortion, Mifepristone, Mifeprex®, and Plan C.

The process involves two medications. Mifepristone is taken first. This medication cuts the supply of the hormone progesterone to the embryo, which is needed to maintain the pregnancy.¹ Without a steady supply of progesterone, the embryo stops growing and eventually dies over the next several days.² The second medication, misoprostol, causes the uterus to cramp and expel the pregnancy.³

How Far Along Can You Take the Abortion Pill?

The FDA approved the use of the abortion pill up to 10 weeks (or 70 days) from your last menstrual period.⁴

Gestational age can be estimated based on a woman’s last menstrual period, but an ultrasound is a far more reliable way to determine the gestational age and to know for sure that the pregnancy is in the proper location.

Pregnancy Decision Line can connect you with a local pregnancy center that provides free ultrasounds. Contact us to get started.

How Long Does the Abortion Pill Take to Work?

During the abortion pill regimen, a woman takes mifepristone first. Then, 24 to 48 hours later she takes misoprostol which causes her uterus to cramp and to expel the pregnancy. She may continue to experience bleeding for about 9 to 16 days and could bleed up to 30 days.⁵ She should follow up with a provider 7 to 14 days after taking the abortion pill to evaluate for complications.⁶

Is Plan B an Abortion Pill?

Plan B is an emergency contraception and is also called the morning-after pill. Emergency contraception and abortion pills are different. Plan B primarily works by preventing the egg & sperm from meeting (so there is no conception, no embryo). However, it may also work by interfering with the implantation of a newly formed embryo, resulting in the loss of that life.⁷

Where Can I Go to Get an Abortion Pill?

The abortion pills are only available through certified providers of mifepristone.⁸ Depending upon your state laws, women access abortion pills through in-person clinics or telemedicine (“virtual”) clinics. Both settings may use pharmacies to dispense the drugs. Both the abortion provider and pharmacy must be certified with the abortion pill manufacturers and follow the FDA-approved protocol.⁹

In states where abortion is not legal, the law typically prohibits residents from receiving abortion pills in the mail. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cautions against getting abortion drugs from online or foreign pharmacies because they have not been approved for safety and effectiveness and there are legal risks.¹⁰

Can Your Gynecologist Give You the Abortion Pill?

Most practicing obstetricians and gynecologists don’t perform abortions.¹¹ In states where abortion is legal, only certified providers can prescribe abortion pills.

How Much Does the Abortion Pill Cost?

As of June 2024, abortion providers charge up to $800 for medical abortion or abortion pills.¹² This may or may not include fees for ultrasounds, blood tests, medications, and follow-up appointments, depending on the provider.

Pregnancy Decision Line can connect you with a local pregnancy center that provides free ultrasounds and abortion pill information. Contact us to get started.

[BUTTON: Call 866-347-7208 and get help now.]

What are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?

Like any medical procedure or medication, the abortion pill has risks. First, women seeking an abortion should make certain they have a pregnancy inside the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy develops outside of the uterus and can be life-threatening if not properly treated.¹³ So, before taking abortion pills, it is recommended that a woman receive an ultrasound.

Further complications after taking mifepristone and misoprostol include hemorrhaging¹⁴, infection¹⁵, or an incomplete abortion¹⁶, which could require further medical intervention.

Call 866-347-7208 to find a local pregnancy center where you can confirm your pregnancy. Your life may depend upon it.

Does the Abortion Pill Hurt?

Everyone tolerates pain differently, but on average, women report a higher level of pain than they expected: they describe the pain as worse than menstrual cramps and compare it to labor contractions.¹⁷

Call Pregnancy Decision Line for Abortion Pill Information

Weighing the pros and cons of abortion can feel overwhelming. But you aren’t alone! Contact Pregnancy Decision Line to speak with our qualified and compassionate staff. We provide accurate, unbiased abortion pill information and a non-judgmental space for you to process your questions and concerns.

All of our services are 100% free and confidential. We exist to provide accurate medical information and support to women and men facing an unplanned pregnancy. Our pregnancy centers do not offer or refer for pregnancy terminations or birth control. Information is provided as an educational service and should not be relied on as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.

Can You Order the Abortion Pill by Mail?

If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, you may have turned to the internet for a solution. All of the information can feel overwhelming. But, as with any medication or procedure, there are many things to consider before you take abortion pills. So, keep reading to learn more!

How Does the Abortion Pill Work? 

With the abortion pill, a woman intentionally takes medication to terminate her pregnancy. Abortion pills may also be called RU-486, Medication Abortion, Medical Abortion, Chemical Abortion, Mifepristone, Mifeprex®, and Plan C. Although it’s referred to as a pill (singular), the abortion pill consists of two different drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol.

Mifepristone is taken first. This medication cuts the supply of the hormone progesterone to the embryo, which is needed to maintain the pregnancy.¹ Without a steady supply of progesterone, the embryo stops growing and eventually dies over the next several days. 

The second medication, misoprostol, is taken 24-48 hours later and causes the uterus to cramp and expel the pregnancy.²

How Far Along Can You Take the Abortion Pill? 

The FDA approved the use of the abortion pill up to 10 weeks (or 70 days) from your last menstrual period.³ Gestational age can be estimated based on a woman’s last menstrual period, but an ultrasound is a far more reliable way to determine the gestational age and to know for sure that the pregnancy is in the proper location. 

Can Abortion Pills be Mailed? 

In states where telemedicine abortion is legal and available, an appointment with an abortion provider is necessary before they will prescribe abortion pills in the mail through a verified pharmacy.⁴ Both the abortion provider and pharmacy must be certified with the abortion pill manufacturers and follow the FDA-approved protocol. 

In states where abortion is not legal, the law typically prohibits residents from receiving abortion pills in the mail. Receiving abortion pills from non-FDA approved overseas online pharmacies is illegal.⁵

What To Know Before Taking the Abortion Pill

Whether you get the abortion pill through telemedicine in the U.S. or elsewhere, it’s important to know what is going on inside your own body, for your own safety. The following are critical questions to ask before you take the abortion pill. Know the answers because your health depends on it.

• How far along am I? Menstrual cycles can be off and may not accurately date your pregnancy. An ultrasound is the most reliable way to find out the gestational age which is what determines the available abortion procedures.

• Is my pregnancy in the correct location? A small number of pregnancies develop outside the uterus (called ectopic) and can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early. Once again, an ultrasound is critical and can tell if the pregnancy is inside the uterus.

• Is my pregnancy viable? Approximately 15% of known pregnancies end in a miscarriage.⁶ This is another reason why getting an ultrasound is an important step before taking medications or seeking other interventions for a pregnancy that is destined to end on its own.

PDL can connect you with a local pregnancy center that provides free ultrasounds. Contact us to get started.

What are the Risks of an At-Home Abortion? 

As with any medication or procedure, women should be aware of all of the risks associated with the abortion pill, including:

• Hemorrhaging. It’s normal to bleed for a while after taking the abortion pill. However, heavier bleeding, known as hemorrhaging, does happen.⁷

• Incomplete abortion. Incomplete abortions occur when some pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus after misoprostol has been taken. Emergency surgery may be needed to remove the remaining tissue and prevent infection.⁸

• Infection. Women who experience sustained fever, severe lower abdominal pain, and fainting should seek medical attention. Also, women who “feel ill,” are weak, have nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, with/without fever and abdominal pain, for more than 24 hours after taking misoprostol may have a serious infection and should seek medical care right away.⁹

• Emotional trauma. Preliminary reports indicate that the abortion pill can be a traumatic experience that causes emotional distress and feelings of isolation.¹⁰

For these reasons, women need to have access to emergency services before, during, and after an abortion. So, women should be under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

Get the Facts on the Abortion Pill at PDL

Sorting through all of your options can feel overwhelming. But you aren’t alone! Contact Pregnancy Decision Line to speak with our qualified and compassionate staff. We provide a confidential space for you to ask questions and get the facts, so you can make a fully informed decision.

All of our services are 100% free and confidential. We exist to provide accurate medical information and support to women and men facing an unplanned pregnancy. Our pregnancy centers do not offer or refer for pregnancy terminations or birth control. Information is provided as an educational service and should not be relied on as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.

Is At-Home Abortion Safe?

It’s crucial to get all the facts, so you can make a fully informed decision. In this blog, we’ll explore at-home abortions—including how they work and if they’re safe, legal, and right for you. Keep reading to learn more. 

How Does an At-Home Abortion Work? 

An at-home abortion is exactly what it sounds like—an abortion done at home. Some women attempt at-home abortions by ingesting a mixture of herbs (more on that in a moment). Others take the abortion pill (also known as medication abortion). 

The abortion pill has many names, including RU-486, Medication Abortion, Medical Abortion, Chemical Abortion, Mifepristone, Mifeprex®, and Plan C. Although it’s referred to as a pill (singular), the abortion pill consists of two different drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol.

Mifepristone is taken first. This medication cuts the supply of the hormone progesterone to the embryo, which is needed to maintain the pregnancy.¹ Without a steady supply of progesterone, the embryo stops growing and eventually dies over the next several days. 

Misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours later at home. This medication causes the uterus to cramp and bleed, which expels the fetus and ends the pregnancy.²

Are At-Home Abortions Legal?

The abortion pill is FDA-approved for use up to 10 weeks of pregnancy (or 70 days since the first day of your last menstrual period.³ However, abortion laws vary from state to state and depending on where you live, you may not be legally allowed to take the abortion pill at all.

Before an at-home abortion, it is critical that you know what is happening inside your body–your health and safety depend upon it. Without an ultrasound to confirm your pregnancy, you won’t know if you are further along than you realize, or if you have a nonviable pregnancy, which will end naturally on its own. Or, you could have a pregnancy outside the uterus, known as an ectopic, which if not diagnosed early can be life-threatening (the abortion pills won’t end an ectopic pregnancy). Contact a local pregnancy center and ask about receiving a free ultrasound to determine how far along you are. If your ultrasound determines that you’re too far along for the abortion pill, we will help you explore all of your pregnancy options, so you can make the most informed decision for your health and future.

Are At-Home Abortions Safe?

At-home abortions are not without risk. After taking the abortion pill, you could experience severe side effects, such as: 

• Hemorrhaging. It’s normal to bleed for a while after taking the abortion pill. However, heavier bleeding, known as hemorrhaging, does happen.⁴

• Incomplete abortion. Incomplete abortions occur when some pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus after misoprostol has been taken. Emergency surgery may be needed to remove the remaining tissue and prevent infection.⁵

• Infection. Women who experience sustained fever, severe lower abdominal pain, and fainting should seek medical attention. Also, women who “feel ill,” are weak, have nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, with/without fever and abdominal pain, for more than 24 hours after taking misoprostol may have a serious infection and should seek medical care right away.⁶

Using herbs to induce an abortion can be extremely harmful.⁷ You may have seen videos on social media talking about how easy and convenient they are. However, there isn’t enough scientific evidence available to suggest that they actually work and medical professionals have found that they can cause organ system failure and even death.⁸

Considering At-Home Abortion? Get the Facts at The Pregnancy Decision Line.

We get it—an unplanned pregnancy can leave you feeling desperate. At Pregnancy Decision Line, it’s our mission to help you protect your health and make a safe, informed decision. We can connect you with a local pregnancy center that offers free pregnancy services and a nonjudgmental space to explore your options and process your emotions.

All of our services are 100% free and confidential. We exist to provide accurate medical information and support to women and men facing an unplanned pregnancy. Our pregnancy centers do not offer or refer for pregnancy terminations or birth control. Information is provided as an educational service and should not be relied on as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.

What is Plan C?

If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, you might be considering Plan C. It’s important to get all of the facts, so you can make a fully informed decision. The compassionate team at Pregnancy Decision Line is here to answer all of your questions, so you can make a fully informed and empowered decision.

Today, we’re exploring Plan C—including how it works and if it’s right for you. Keep reading to learn more.

Is Plan C the Same as the Abortion Pill?

Plan C is another name for the abortion pill. It’s also referred to as medication abortion, medical abortion, chemical abortion, RU-486, Mifepristone, and Mifeprex®. Plan C also refers to an organization that provides information and resources on the abortion pill. The terms are often used interchangeably.

How Does Plan C Work?

Plan C 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.^[1] Without a steady supply of progesterone, the embryo stops growing and eventually dies.^[2] Misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours later resulting in cramping and bleeding that usually expels the embryo.^[3]

Mifepristone with misoprostol (“Plan C”) is approved by the FDA up to 10 weeks of pregnancy (or 70 days since the first day of your last menstrual period).^[4]

Can I Order Plan C Online?

The FDA warns against ordering abortion drugs like Plan C online. Many online abortion drug providers are located overseas and the pills they provide may not be FDA-approved and may not be safe to take.^[5] They could be expired, counterfeit, the incorrect dosage, or even laced with harmful substances.

What are the Side Effects of Plan C?

The following are typical side effects after taking Plan C:

• Bleeding and cramping
• Headaches
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Fever and chills

These side effects are fairly common after a medication abortion. However, you may experience severe side effects and complications that require medical care, such as:

• Hemorrhaging. It’s normal to bleed for a while after taking the abortion pill. However, heavier bleeding, known as hemorrhaging, can happen.^[6]
• Incomplete abortion. Incomplete abortions occur when some pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus after misoprostol has been taken. Emergency surgery may be needed to remove the remaining tissue and prevent infection.^[7]
• Infection. Women who experience sustained fever, severe lower abdominal pain, and fainting should seek medical attention. Also, women who “feel ill,” are weak, have nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, with/without fever and abdominal pain, for more than 24 hours after taking misoprostol may have a serious infection and should seek medical care right away.^[8]
• Severe abdominal or pelvic pain.^[9]

It can be hard to tell if you are having an expected side effect or experiencing a life-threatening complication. If you experience any of the severe side effects listed above, contact a medical professional right away to receive treatment or go to the nearest ER.

Get the Facts on Plan C at Pregnancy Decision Line

We understand—pregnancy wasn’t part of your plan. Don’t decide out of fear. Contact  Pregnancy Decision Line first. Our compassionate team is here to answer all of your questions, help you explore your pregnancy options, and create a plan you can be confident in.

Give us a call to learn more. All services are confidential and free of charge.

All of our services are 100% free and confidential. We exist to provide accurate medical information and support to women and men facing an unplanned pregnancy. Our pregnancy centers do not offer or refer for pregnancy terminations or birth control. Information is provided as an educational service and should not be relied on as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.