ABORTION PILL INFORMATION

Columbia Pregnancy Center provides free and confidential information on the abortion pill. If you are considering an at-home abortion, we offer free ultrasound services to confirm a viable pregnancy and determine how far along you are. The gestational age of your pregnancy is a key factor in determining eligibility for the abortion pill and understanding your options. Many telehealth abortion pill providers require an ultrasound before prescribing the medication, and we provide this service at no cost.


While we do not perform or refer for abortion services, we provide education on abortion procedures and offer free ultrasound services to support your decision-making process. We also educate on all unplanned pregnancy options and can connect you with community referrals for pregnancy-related services. Schedule a free and confidential appointment today to receive information and support.

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Medical Abortion

Medication abortion also called abortion pill, can be taken up to 70 days (10 weeks pregnant). 1


The abortion pill generally refers to a method of medical abortion involving two medications to terminate an early pregnancy. The first medication blocks progesterone, a hormone essential for pregnancy. Without progesterone, the uterine lining breaks down, and the pregnancy cannot continue. The second medication, taken 24 to 48 hours later, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy. Medical abortion isn’t an option if you:  2


  • Have an intrauterine device (IUD) currently in place.
  • Have a concern that the pregnancy is outside of the uterus. This is called ectopic pregnancy and can be life-threatening. 3
  • Are further along in your pregnancy than 10 weeks. The FDA has only approved the abortion pill for up to 10 weeks from the LMP. Taking the abortion pill later in pregnancy is associated with increased risk of complications, such as an incomplete abortion or severe bleeding. 4
  • Have certain medical problems including: bleeding disorders, severe liver or kidney disease, known cardiac disease, or an uncontrolled seizure disorder.
  • Take certain medications including blood thinners or steroids.
  • Are allergic to the medicines used.


Important Information On Incomplete Abortions


Columbia Pregnancy Center does not offer medical care for incomplete abortions. If you are in need of emotional support following an abortion experience, please view our post-abortion emotional support page. Recovering from an abortion can feel frightening and overwhelming but you don't have to go through it alone.


Common Signs of an Incomplete Abortion


If you or someone you know has recently had an abortion, watch for these warning signs:


  • Heavy or prolonged bleeding – soaking through more than two pads an hour, or heavy bleeding that lasts for days.
  • Severe abdominal or pelvic pain – cramping that worsens or doesn’t go away.
  • Fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms – possible signs of infection.
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge – may indicate uterine infection.
  • Ongoing pregnancy symptoms – nausea, breast tenderness, or fatigue that continues after the abortion.


Why It’s Important to Seek Help Immediately


Ignoring symptoms of an incomplete abortion can put your health at risk. Complications may include:


  • Severe infection (sepsis)
  • Hemorrhaging (dangerous blood loss)
  • Future fertility issues
  • Life-threatening conditions if untreated


REFERENCES

  1. Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation: fda.gov
  2. Medical abortion isn't an option if you: mayoclinic.org
  3. Ectopic Pregnancy: mayoclinic.org
  4. Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation: fda.gov
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