Abortion is banned in Texas unless a provider deems the woman’s life or health is at risk. When facing an unplanned pregnancy and wondering if you can buy the abortion pill online, the answer can be complicated.
Though you can still find the abortion pill online, the FDA advises against it. There are risks to your health due to the source, quality, safety, and effectiveness of the abortion pill drugs purchased online, as these can’t be guaranteed.
What is the Abortion Pill?
Also known as “the abortion pill,” medical abortion consists of two different drugs that terminate a pregnancy.
Mifepristone is taken first to block progesterone, an essential pregnancy hormone. This will cause the lining of the uterus to thin and prevent the embryo from staying implanted or growing—terminating the pregnancy.
Second, misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through the vagina.
Risks of the Abortion Pill
Side effects of the abortion pill include abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding. These drugs are also associated with risks, including:
- Incomplete abortion (requiring another procedure)
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
You May Not Be Eligible
Certain circumstances may make you more likely to experience risks or greater risks. The abortion pill drugs aren’t recommended in the following situations:
- Are too far along in your pregnancy—the abortion pill is only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is under 10 weeks gestation.
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD) currently in place
- Have a suspected ectopic pregnancy, which is a life-threatening situation in which the pregnancy grows outside your uterus.
- Have certain medical conditions, which include bleeding disorders, certain heart or blood vessel diseases, severe liver, kidney, or lung disease, or an uncontrolled seizure disorder
- Take a blood thinner or certain steroid medicines
- Can’t make follow-up visits to your provider or don’t have access to emergency care
- Have an allergy to the medicine used
When you purchase abortion pill drugs online, you’re bypassing safety steps like having an ultrasound. An ultrasound can help determine your pregnancy options and safeguard your health.
You should also speak with a medical provider to assess your eligibility for the abortion pill.
To be sure of your pregnancy details and your options, schedule a free appointment today.
Options Clinic provides a confidential environment for women and couples navigating pregnancy decisions. We offer pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and more. You are not alone.