If you’ve heard about abortion drugs being delivered through the mail, you’ve heard about an at-home abortion (also known as an “online abortion”). Though some women believe this is a more convenient option, an at-home abortion creates additional health risks you should learn.
We’ll explain the safety concerns surrounding an at-home abortion below. However, if you are unexpectedly pregnant and want to learn more, schedule an initial appointment to talk about your options with a nurse today.
How Could an At-Home Abortion Impact Your Health?
When you hear the term “at-home abortion,” it refers to abortion drugs that are purchased online and delivered to your address. You may have a telehealth appointment before ordering the drugs, and you take them at home.
Typically, there are two drugs used for this abortion method. Mifepristone is the first drug, and it blocks a hormone called progesterone that is essential to your pregnancy’s development. Without progesterone, your uterine lining thins, and the pregnancy detaches and ends.
The second drug you’ll take is misoprostol. It causes your uterus to contract, which expels the pregnancy and related tissue from the body. When you take these drugs, you’ll always have abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding.
Taking abortion drugs at home without medical oversight can present health risks, and it’s crucial to be aware of these before making a decision.
1. You won’t be able to verify the quality of these drugs.
The FDA warns against purchasing abortion drugs online because you can’t guarantee their safety and quality.
The drugs often come from unregulated or overseas sources, which means you may not receive the proper dosage, instructions, or even kind of drug.
2. You may not be eligible to take these abortion drugs.
Abortion drugs are FDA-approved through 10 weeks gestation, and taking them past that stage isn’t recommended. If you don’t receive an ultrasound to learn how far along you are, you could accidentally take the drugs without being eligible for the procedure.
Additionally, not everyone can take abortion drugs. Without medical oversight, you won’t know if taking them presents serious health risks.
The Mayo Clinic states that you cannot take these drugs if any of the following applies:
- You have an intrauterine device (IUD) currently in place.
- You take blood thinners or certain steroid medicines.
- You have a suspected ectopic pregnancy.
- This occurs when the fertilized egg implants in a location other than the uterus. It is life-threatening and requires immediate medical treatment.
- You have certain medical conditions, including chronic adrenal failure, anemia, certain bleeding disorders, severe liver, kidney, or lung disease, certain heart or blood vessel diseases, or an uncontrolled seizure disorder.
- Can’t reach a healthcare professional by phone or online
- Don’t have access to emergency care
- Have an allergy to any of the drugs used
If you opt for an at-home abortion, you’ll also lack the oversight and information needed to identify severe side effects or risks.
3. You won’t receive an ultrasound.
Receiving an ultrasound is crucial to confirming your pregnancy, learning critical details, and determining your options.
You’ll be eligible for a limited ultrasound (we offer abdominal ultrasounds up to 13 weeks gestation) when you schedule an initial pregnancy testing appointment with a nurse and receive a positive result.
An ultrasound will tell you whether your pregnancy is progressing, where it is located, and how far along you are. You need this information to weigh your options and make a decision that considers your well-being.
We’ll Help You Learn About Your Pregnancy
When you meet with a registered nurse at Informed Choices Women’s Center, you’ll be directed to other services (including an ultrasound) based on your needs. We do not provide or refer for abortions and are committed to helping you make a confident decision.
Make an initial no-cost, confidential appointment today. For faster scheduling, you can also call one of our locations: Mountain Home (870-424-4673) or Harrison (870-280-3169).