You may have heard conflicting things about the abortion pill and Plan B. They are both connected to pregnancy, but it can be easy to confuse the two. While Plan B is used to prevent a pregnancy, the abortion pill is used to terminate an existing pregnancy.
What Is the Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill consists of two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone blocks progesterone and prevents the embryo from implanting in the uterus, while misoprostol causes cramping and expels both the embryo and remaining pregnancy tissue through the vagina.
There are certain risks associated with this type of abortion, and it is not for everyone. According to the Mayo Clinic, the abortion pill is not an option if you:
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD)
- Are too far along in your pregnancy
- Have certain medical conditions
- Have a suspected ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy outside of the uterus)
- Can’t make follow-up visits to your provider
- Have an allergy to the medicines used
- Take a blood thinner or certain steroid medications
Before taking the abortion pill, it is important that you confirm that you are healthy and able to take these medications. Receiving a physical, reviewing medical records with your physician, and confirming your pregnancy with lab-quality pregnancy testing and an obstetrical ultrasound are key to ensuring that your health is protected.
What Is Plan B?
Plan B, also known as the “morning-after pill,” is made of levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate. According to the FDA, Plan B acts “by stopping the release of an egg from the ovary (ovulation). It may prevent the union of sperm and egg (fertilization). If fertilization does occur, Plan B may prevent a fertilized egg from attaching to the womb (implantation). If a fertilized egg is implanted prior to taking Plan B, Plan B will not work.”
Plan B does not protect against STDs and may not be as effective for women who are overweight or obese. You shouldn’t take this medication if:
- You’re taking medications that could decrease the morning-after pill’s effectiveness
- You’re allergic to the morning-after pill
- You’re already pregnant or breastfeeding
What if I Have More Questions?
Have more questions about the abortion pill or Plan B? Wondering about your pregnancy options? Pathways Clinic is here for you! We would be happy to answer any questions you have.
Contact us today to schedule a free of charge appointment. We offer lab-quality pregnancy testing, as well as free, limited ultrasounds and options support. You are not alone, and you deserve to have all of the facts. We are here for you!