Finding out you’re unexpectedly pregnant can produce a whirlwind of emotions and questions. Searching for support or answers online, you might have come across information about abortion pills that you can order and receive in the mail at your home. The convenience and privacy of ordering these pills online may seem tempting, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure of your next steps.
However, it’s crucial to pause and gather all the facts before making any decision that will affect your health.
At Essential Pregnancy Services, we believe that every woman deserves to be fully informed and supported as she makes choices about her pregnancy and her future.
This blog post aims to help you learn the basics about online abortion pills, including the risks and potential complications of ordering abortion pills online and taking them at home, so you can make the best decision for yourself, your health, and your well-being.
Abortion Pill Regulations
Online abortion services typically offer a combination of two medications, mifepristone and misoprostol, which work together to end a pregnancy. The FDA has approved the use of these medications only within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, and different states have different laws regarding medication abortion.
For information about Nebraska’s abortion laws, read “Nebraska Abortion Law: What You Need to Know” and consult with a qualified attorney for legal questions regarding abortion in Nebraska.
While the process of obtaining and taking two pills at home may seem simple, it’s important to understand that it is a medical procedure with effects on your body and potential complications.
The Dangers of No Medical Supervision
Obtaining abortion pills online often means bypassing a traditional healthcare setting. This can raise some concerns:
- No In-Person Exam: Without a physical exam, underlying health conditions that could affect the risks of a medication abortion might be missed.
- Lack of Ultrasound: An ultrasound can accurately determine the gestational age of the pregnancy and rule out potential complications, including a life-threatening ectopic pregnancy, where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus.
- Limited Follow-Up Care: If complications arise after taking the pills, you might lack access to timely medical care from well-informed healthcare providers.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not deemed the medications safe and effective when purchased on the internet. Acquiring these medications online and using them without medical supervision can lead to serious complications.
Potential Risks and Complications
The risks of medication, or medical, abortion include:
- Incomplete Abortion: The pregnancy is not fully terminated, requiring additional medical intervention.
- Heavy Bleeding: This can be significant and may necessitate an emergency room visit or blood transfusion.
- Infection: Uterine infection can occur, leading to pain, fever, and further complications.
- Other Side Effects: Some additional side effects can include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and cramping.
It’s crucial to be aware of these risks and understand that they may cause you to need medical care.
Important: If you have taken the first abortion pill medication and are having second thoughts, abortion pill reversal may be an option for you! Don’t hesitate to call the Abortion Pill Reversal Helpline at 1-877-558-0333 or reach out to an EPS nurse now by calling the EPS Helpline at 402-554-1000.
Emotional and Psychological Impact
Abortion, regardless of how it’s obtained, can have a significant emotional and psychological impact. It’s important to consider your emotional well-being and have a plan for coping with potential feelings of grief, loss, or regret. Essential Pregnancy Services can connect you to counseling resources if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to cope.
Your Right to Choose, Your Need for Information
Making a decision about an unexpected pregnancy is never easy. At Essential Pregnancy Services, we believe you deserve accurate information and compassionate support to make the best choice for yourself.
Whether you’re considering abortion, adoption, or parenting, we’re here to offer nonjudgmental guidance and help you understand all your options. Our services include free pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds to confirm your pregnancy and determine how far along you are.
Reach Out Today
If you’re considering ordering the abortion pill or have any questions about your options, we encourage you to reach out to us or schedule an appointment online. We understand that this is a deeply personal decision, and we’re here to offer confidential, nonjudgmental support.
Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone. We’re here to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and help you explore all your options so you can make an informed and confident decision.