How Does the Abortion Pill Work?

The abortion pill (also known as medication abortion) actually consists of two pills: mifepristone and misoprostol.

Mifepristone is taken first, usually in a clinic. This medication cuts the supply of the hormone progesterone to the embryo, which is needed to maintain the pregnancy. The embryo stops growing without a steady supply of progesterone.

Misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours later at home. This medication makes the uterus cramp and expel the fetus, which ends the pregnancy.

How Late Can You Take the Abortion Pill?

You can’t take the abortion pill beyond 10 weeks of pregnancy (or 70 days since the first day of your last menstrual period)[1]. This is because it becomes less effective the farther along you are. 

If you take the abortion pill later on in your pregnancy, you could experience serious complications and may need emergency surgery to complete the procedure.

Can I Get Abortion Pills Over the Counter? 

Certain pharmacies are now authorized to dispense the abortion pill. However, you can’t purchase it in the same way you would Tylenol or allergy relief medications. The FDA requires a prescription from a qualified physician in order to take the abortion pill[1]

Can I Order the Abortion Pill Online?

The FDA advises against ordering the abortion pill online. Many online abortion pill providers are located overseas, so the pills they provide may not meet FDA standards[3]. These pills could be counterfeit, expired, or even tampered with! It’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid ordering the abortion pill online. 

 

Is Abortion Legal in Mississippi?

Currently, abortion is illegal in Mississippi[2]. However, exceptions can be made to save the life of the mother[2]

Abortion Pill Information in Starkville, MS

When those two lines first appear, it can be easy to panic. Don’t let fear make the final decision for you! Get the care and support you deserve at 1st Steps Clinic! We offer free pregnancy resources, so you can make an empowered decision for your unplanned pregnancy:  

  • Free pregnancy tests
  • Free ultrasounds
  • A safe, confidential place to explore your pregnancy options and process your emotions

 

Give us a call at (662) 324-7011 or schedule an appointment online today. All services are confidential and free of charge!

1st Steps Clinic does not have abortion providers in our network and cannot speak to the level of care you would receive from them.  So, we do not refer to abortion providers or perform abortion procedures.

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