Is an Online Abortion or At-Home Abortion Safe?

Many women want to terminate an unexpected pregnancy by requesting abortion pills on the internet. The hope is that they can start the abortion process in the privacy of their own homes. This type of abortion can only be performed during the first trimester of pregnancy

This method of abortion is becoming increasingly available and does not require an in-person visit to a clinic in some states. It’s still important to research the process and any potential risks so that you can make a confident decision.

How Does an Online/At-Home Abortion Work?

In some states, some clinics offer telehealth consultations where you can then pick up the prescribed abortion pill at the clinic or local pharmacy. 

Not every state offers telehealth consultations, but the risk is that you skip the step of an ultrasound which is the best medical practice in order to ensure you are under 11 weeks, assess for miscarriage indicators, and rule out an ectopic pregnancy. The abortion pill is ineffective beyond 11 weeks and in the case of an ectopic pregnancy.

The abortion pill process is actually a series of two drugs. The first is called mifepristone, which blocks progesterone so the pregnancy is no longer able to progress. 

The second drug, misoprostol, is taken 24-48 hours later. This second pill will force the uterus to contract, essentially putting a woman into labor so that the fetus is expelled. 

What Are the Risks? 

According to the Mayo Clinic, there are some disqualifiers to be aware of if you’re considering this procedure: 

• If you are later than 9 weeks into your pregnancy
• If you have an intrauterine device (IUD).
• If you have an ectopic pregnancy (located outside the uterus).
• If you have certain medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders; certain heart or blood vessel diseases, etc.
• If you take a blood thinner or certain steroid medications.
• If you don’t have access to emergency care.

If you do not have any of these pre-existing conditions, there are other factors that are important to be aware of that may impact your decision:

• Possibility of an incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
• The ability to skip important health screenings (such as an ultrasound)
• Lack of emergency care or medical supervision

Schedule a Screening

While this method may seem convenient and discreet, it is important to protect your health and safety by having an in-person evaluation, including an ultrasound. 

If you have not yet had an ultrasound or if you need to talk with someone about your options who is not financially invested in your decision, Your Options Medical provides no-cost ultrasounds. You will receive medically accurate information in regards to any of your questions. You are not alone, schedule an appointment today!