How to Prepare for an Abortion Pill
Thinking About the Abortion Pill? Here's What You Should Know First.
If you’re pregnant and considering the abortion pill, there are a few important things to confirm before moving forward. Having the right information can help you feel confident and safe in your decision. Need immediate support? Text a nurse anonymously at no cost: (208) 944-1004.
Medical Abortion Checklist
1. Be Certain YOu Are Actually Pregnant
It might seem obvious, but sometimes fear or urgency can lead to skipping this important step. Before starting any kind of medical abortion, it’s essential to verify your pregnancy with a high-quality lab test and an ultrasound.
Never take abortion medication unless a pregnancy has been confirmed, and always under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider.
2. Know the Status and Stage of Fetal Development
Miscarriages occur in roughly 10% to 20% of known pregnancies.¹ While a positive test confirms pregnancy hormones, it doesn’t guarantee that the pregnancy is still viable. That’s why an ultrasound is key—it helps determine whether the pregnancy is progressing normally or if there are complications, such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy.²
Ultrasounds also provide essential information about fetal development. Since the FDA has approved the abortion pill for pregnancies up to 70 days from the first day of your last period,³ an ultrasound can confirm whether you're within that timeframe.
3. Make Sure THis is YOur Decision
Pregnancy affects more than just your body—it often involves the opinions of those around you. But ultimately, this is your choice. Legally, no one can force you into having an abortion—not a partner, friend, parent, or anyone else.
If you're feeling pressure or fear about your situation, you're not alone. Support is available. At Lifeline Pregnancy Resource Center, we offer a safe, private, and judgment-free environment where you can explore your options, ask questions, and speak freely with someone who cares.
4. Know The Risks
Abortion, like any medical procedure, involves physical and emotional risks. It’s also permanent, so it’s important to feel confident in your decision beforehand.
Before a medical or surgical abortion, screening and treating any undiagnosed STIs is essential. If an infection like chlamydia goes untreated, it could lead to complications such as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), which can increase the risk of infertility or ectopic pregnancy.⁴
Beyond the physical, some individuals experience emotional or spiritual effects after an abortion. Being aware of these possibilities ahead of time can help you prepare and find the right support system if needed.
Abortion Consultation Services
If you’re unsure about what to do or simply want to learn more about your options, Lifeline Pregnancy Resource Center is here for you. We offer no-cost services, including pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, STI referrals, and confidential options consultations.
Text (208) 944-1004 to connect with a certified nurse who can walk you through what to expect and help you feel supported every step of the way.
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