How to Prepare for an Abortion Pill

How to Prepare for an Abortion Pill

If you're pregnant and thinking about a medical abortion you're probably already aware of the abortion pill. But before taking the next step, there are a few important things to consider to protect your health and make a fully informed decision. Have questions? Chat anonymously with a nurse at no cost by texting (928) 832-4230.

 

Medical Abortion Checklist

 
1. Be Certain YOu Are Actually Pregnant

This might sound obvious, but it’s easy to rush into a decision before confirming pregnancy through accurate, medical-grade testing. A lab-quality pregnancy test, followed by an ultrasound, is essential before taking the abortion pill.

You should never take abortion medication unless your pregnancy has been medically confirmed, and always under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

 

2. Know the Status and Stage of Fetal Development 

Approximately 10%–20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage.¹ While a positive pregnancy test shows that hCG is present in your system, it does not confirm whether the pregnancy is viable or located in the uterus.

An ultrasound is necessary to confirm fetal viability and rule out an ectopic pregnancy—when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, which can be life-threatening.² It also helps determine how far along you are, which is critical because the abortion pill is FDA-approved only up to 70 days (10 weeks) from the first day of your last period.³

 

3. Make Sure THis is YOur Decision

You may feel pressure from different people—your partner, friends, or even family. But ultimately, the decision is yours.

No one can legally force or coerce you to have an abortion. If you’re feeling pressured or unsure, know that you have rights and access to support. New Hope offers free, private consultations with professionals who are here to listen, support, and help you explore your options safely and without judgment.

 

4. Know The Risks

Medical abortion is a significant decision with physical, emotional, and sometimes spiritual consequences.

One overlooked risk is the potential spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If an STI such as chlamydia is present and untreated before the procedure, it may increase the risk of developing Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), which can lead to complications like infertility or future ectopic pregnancies.⁴ STI testing and treatment beforehand are strongly recommended.

It's important to be emotionally and mentally prepared, as some individuals may experience distress or regret afterward.

 

Abortion Consultation Services

If you're seeking clear, unbiased information about the abortion pill or just need someone to talk to, New Hope is here to help.

We provide free services including:

  • Pregnancy testing

  • Ultrasounds

  • Confidential options consultations

To speak with a certified nurse or schedule an appointment, text us at (928) 832-4230. We're here to offer the care, support, and answers you need—without judgment and at no cost.

 

 

Sources:

1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-loss-miscarriage/symptoms-causes

2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/9704-ultrasound-in-pregnancy

3.https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/information-about-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation

4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352594