Some women have turned to mail-order or online abortion as a method of ending their pregnancies. They feel it’s more convenient and allows them to make a pregnancy decision quickly.
Taking abortion drugs received in the mail can be dangerous to your health and pose several unknowns. Abortion is a big decision, and you should meet with a medical provider before taking any drugs.
Keep reading to learn what you should consider before opting for this method.
1. Are You Medically Cleared for an Abortion?
The FDA has approved mifepristone (one of the abortion pill drugs) through ten weeks of gestation only. Taking medical abortion drugs without knowing your gestational age can be risky.
Receiving an ultrasound before making any pregnancy decision is essential. An ultrasound determines whether your pregnancy has a heartbeat and is growing, its gestational age (how far along you are), and its location.
This scan can also identify whether you’ve had a miscarriage or are having an ectopic pregnancy. This second condition occurs when the fertilized egg implants in a location other than the uterus. It is dangerous and requires medical treatment.
In addition to an ultrasound, you should review your medical history with a provider. Certain conditions and allergies can exclude you from having a medical abortion.
2. Where Are These Drugs Coming From?
Many abortion drugs come from overseas pharmacies or unregulated locations, which enables people to offer them at reduced rates. But this means you can’t guarantee you’re receiving the proper drugs or dosage.
Putting unknown substances into your body poses risks to your health and can cause complications.
3. Have You Learned About Your Options?
Learning about your other options, including parenting and adoption, is crucial before making a pregnancy decision. Sage Women’s Center offers no-charge options education. We don’t provide or refer for abortions, but we supply you with evidence-based education on all procedures.
Typically, mail-order abortion doesn’t involve medical screening or options education. You may receive the drugs after a single telehealth appointment. You owe it to yourself to make an informed, careful decision—your health matters.
Support is Available
Sage Women’s Center has no-charge, private services for those with unexpected pregnancies. At our center, you’ll receive lab-quality pregnancy testing and may qualify for a limited obstetric ultrasound to help you decide. Plus, you will receive critical health information.
Contact us today to make an appointment and meet with a staff member.