3 Things to Know If You Are Considering Mail-Order Abortion

Every woman handles unexpected pregnancy differently. While one might take her time and process her emotions, another might begin searching for options right after a positive pregnancy test. Regardless of how you’re feeling or handling the news, know we can help you.

Some women look to mail-order abortion pills as a quick way to terminate a pregnancy, but this comes with risks. Keep reading to learn the three things you should know if you’re considering mail-order abortion.

Mail-order abortion might not be an option for you

If you live in a state with certain abortion restrictions, mail-order abortion could be illegal and unavailable for you. Thirty-two states require licensed physicians to administer medical abortion (the abortion pill), and nineteen states require the clinician to be physically present when administering the drugs. Those nineteen states do not allow telemedicine for the abortion pill.

Trying to bypass state laws and purchasing the abortion pill online can be dangerous, as not every seller online is legitimate or selling what they claim to sell. Reputable providers and health systems will follow the laws for the states they operate in.

You might not need an abortion

There are a few conditions that can only be determined by an ultrasound. If doing a mail-order abortion without an ultrasound, you could pay money for an unnecessary procedure, only to later find out you need to do something else.

According to Mayo Clinic, about 10 to 20 percent of known pregnancies end in miscarriage. This means, even if your pregnancy test was positive, your pregnancy might not be viable or progressing. If this is the case, you could miscarry on your own, or you might need to seek medical attention. 

Ectopic Pregnancy

The abortion pill will not terminate a pregnancy outside the uterus. Ectopic pregnancies are pregnancies that have implanted outside the uterus, typically in a fallopian tube. These can be dangerous to your health and should be identified and treated by a medical professional as soon as possible.

You’re Too Far Along

The FDA has only approved the use of the abortion pill up to 70 days or less since the first day of your last menstrual cycle. If you’re considering mail-order abortion, and haven’t had an ultrasound, you could be farther along than you realize.

You should get tested for STDs before mail-order abortion

The presence of a sexually transmitted disease during an abortion procedure raises the risk of developing Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) because it can spread the infection from the vagina or cervix further into the uterus. You’ll want to make sure you have STD testing performed prior to any abortion procedures. 

Be Safe and Confident

You owe it to yourself to take the proper safety precautions and think through this life-changing decision before buying mail-order abortion pills. Schedule your free and confidential appointment at First Care Pregnancy Center. We’ll provide free pregnancy testing, an ultrasound, STD testing, and a safe environment to talk through your next steps.