How to Prepare for an Abortion Pill

How to Prepare for an Abortion Pill

Thinking About the Abortion Pill? Read This First

If you're pregnant and considering the abortion pill, you probably have a lot on your mind. It’s important to be fully informed before making any decisions. The abortion pill is a serious medical process, and there are a few key things to check off your list before moving forward. Need answers now? You can text a nurse for free and anonymously at (803) 990-3323.

 

Medical Abortion Checklist


1. Make Sure You’re Actually Pregnant

This might seem obvious, but when emotions are high, it’s easy to skip important steps. Before considering the abortion pill, it’s essential to confirm your pregnancy with a lab-quality test and ultrasound.

Why it matters:

  • Taking abortion medication when you’re not pregnant can put your health at risk.

  • A medical professional can help verify that your pregnancy is real and not a false positive.

  • Never take the abortion pill without medical oversight.

2. Know the Status and Stage of Fetal Development 

Roughly 10% to 20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage—sometimes without symptoms.¹ That’s why an ultrasound is so important. It confirms if the pregnancy is viable (still developing) and helps detect dangerous complications like an ectopic pregnancy, where the embryo implants outside the uterus.²

The abortion pill is FDA-approved for up to 70 days (10 weeks) after your last period.³ An ultrasound gives a more accurate picture of how far along you really are and whether you’re within that safe window.

 

3. Make Sure THis is YOur Decision

You may be getting advice—or pressure—from people around you. Friends, a partner, or family may all have opinions about what you should do.

But here’s the truth: No one can legally force you to have an abortion.

If you’re feeling pressured or unsure, you’re not alone. At Lifebridge Pregnancy Center, we provide confidential, pressure-free support to help you explore your options. You deserve a space to process your decision in your own time, without fear or judgment.

 

4. Know The Risks

Abortion, like any medical procedure, comes with risks. These can be physical, emotional, and spiritual.

Some things to consider:

  • If you have an untreated sexually transmitted infection (STI), especially chlamydia, an abortion—particularly a surgical one—could increase your risk for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), which may affect future fertility.⁴

  • You can’t reverse the abortion pill once it’s taken. That’s why being 100% confident in your decision is so important.

  • Some women report feelings of regret, sadness, or emotional distress afterward. Having post-abortion support in place can make a big difference.

Abortion Consultation Services

If you need someone to talk to, Lifebridge Pregnancy Center is here for you. Our licensed nurses offer free and confidential services, including:

Whether you're looking for medical answers or emotional support, you're not alone.

Text us anytime at (803) 990-3323 to connect with a nurse who can guide you through your questions and help you feel empowered in your decision.

 

Sources:

1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-loss-miscarriage/symptoms-causes

2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/9704-ultrasound-in-pregnancy

3.https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/information-about-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation

4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352594