3 Things to Know if You Are Considering Mail-Order Abortion

If you’re thinking about a mail-order abortion, it’s okay to have questions. In fact, it’s wise to slow down, gather information, and make sure you understand what this process involves. Your health is important—and knowing the facts can help you make the decision that’s right for you.

Here are three key things to keep in mind as you explore your options.

1. Online Abortion Pills Bypass FDA Safeguards

Although getting abortion pills online might seem simple or private, there are dangers involved. The FDA does not recommend sourcing these drugs. Many times, they are outside the regulated U.S. supply chain. That’s because online providers may send pills that are expired, altered, or even fake.

Without medical oversight, there’s no way to confirm what you’re taking or how your body will respond.

2. The Abortion Pill Involves Risks

The abortion pill typically uses two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. These drugs work together to end a pregnancy, but they are powerful and come with real side effects.

Some women experience intense cramping, bleeding, nausea, or infection. Many report that the experience is more painful than they expected. There’s also the risk of an incomplete abortion, which might require surgical treatment. It’s important to understand exactly how this process works before you begin.

3. An Ultrasound Is an Important First Step

Before making any pregnancy decision, including a mail-order abortion, it’s vital to know how far along you are and whether the pregnancy is viable.

An ultrasound is the way to get key details about your pregnancy so you know your available options. It can determine:

How many weeks pregnant you are (the abortion pill is only FDA-approved up to 10 weeks)
Whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus (ectopic pregnancies require emergency care)
If the pregnancy is viable (some miscarriages happen naturally)

Get Answers and Support at Crossroads

You don’t have to figure this out on your own. At Crossroads, we offer no-cost pregnancy services in a caring and confidential setting. We can help you explore your options and may be able to provide you with an ultrasound.

Let us provide clarity, compassion, and medically accurate information so you can make the best choice for your health. Reach out today to schedule your no-cost appointment.

*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.

Sources:

Mayo Clinic. (2018). Medical abortion – Mayo Clinic. Mayoclinic.org. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/medical-abortion/about/pac-20394687

Research, C. for D. E. and. (2023). Information about Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. FDA. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/information-about-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation

Røseth, I., Lyberg, A. M., Sommerseth, E., Sandvik, B. M., & Dahl, B. (2023). “Out of This World”: Norwegian Women’s Experiences of Medical Abortion Pain. Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare, 16, 889–898. https://doi.org/10.2147/JMDH.S399209