You may be thinking about mail-order abortion as an option when facing an unexpected pregnancy. This involves purchasing abortion drugs online and having them sent directly to your home.
While it may seem convenient, there are crucial risks and factors you need to be aware of before making a decision. Here are three important things to consider if you’re exploring this option:
1. Am I Eligible?
Not everyone is eligible for a medical abortion due to specific health risks. Medical abortion is not an option if you:
- Are too far along in your pregnancy. You shouldn’t attempt a medical abortion if you’ve been pregnant for more than 11 weeks. A pregnancy is dated from the first day of your last menstrual period.
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD) currently in place.
- Have a suspected pregnancy outside of the uterus. This is called ectopic pregnancy.
- Have certain medical conditions. These include anemia; some bleeding disorders; chronic adrenal failure; 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 reach a healthcare professional by phone or online, or don’t have access to emergency care.
- Have an allergy to the medicine used in a medical abortion.
Before taking any steps, ensure that a healthcare professional has evaluated your situation.
2. Know the Risks
Ordering online may mean only a quick video consultation with a doctor before receiving the drugs. It bypasses many safeguards in place to protect your health.
The FDA advises against purchasing abortion pills online. Drugs bought online may come from unregulated pharmacies in other countries, which increases the risk of receiving the wrong drugs, incorrect dosages, or improper instructions. Often, issues aren’t detected until it’s too late, putting your health at serious risk.
3. The Importance of Ultrasounds
Before deciding on abortion drugs, it’s essential to know specific details about your pregnancy. This includes:
- How far along you are: Medical abortions are only advised for pregnancies through 10 weeks.
- Where your pregnancy is developing: Ectopic pregnancies, where the embryo implants outside the uterus, require immediate medical attention, not abortion drugs.
- Whether your pregnancy will continue: Around 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage. If you’re already experiencing a miscarriage, taking abortion pills could lead to complications.
An ultrasound is the best way to gather this important information. It can give you a clear picture of your pregnancy and help you make an informed decision.
Visit Heartbeats Women’s Center
Heartbeats Women’s Center offers free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and support services to provide you with the answers you need before considering a mail-order abortion. Our compassionate team is here to assist you in a confidential and safe environment.
Contact us today to schedule your free appointment.
