Am I Eligible for the Abortion Pill?

Are you considering the abortion pill and wondering if it might be an option for you? We understand this can be a deeply personal and emotional decision. At Crossroads, we provide compassionate support as you explore your options.

Learning how the abortion pill works can help you make a confident decision. You are not alone. Our no-cost, confidential services are designed to offer the help you need.

Understanding the Abortion Pill

The abortion pill, also known as a medical abortion, is an FDA-approved method used to end a pregnancy through 10 weeks of gestation. It involves taking two drugs over 24–48 hours:

Mifepristone is the first drug that blocks progesterone, the hormone needed to sustain a pregnancy. Misoprostol is taken later at home; it causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.

While many women consider this option early in pregnancy, it’s important to understand that not everyone is medically eligible for the abortion pill.

Is it an Option?

Certain health conditions and factors may make the abortion pill less safe or effective. A medical evaluation is key to identifying any concerns. You should speak with a healthcare provider if:

Your pregnancy is beyond 10 weeks of gestation
You have a suspected ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy located outside the uterus, which can be life-threatening if untreated)
You have an intrauterine device (IUD) in place
You have a history of bleeding disorders, heart conditions, severe liver, kidney, or lung disease, or uncontrolled seizure disorders
You take blood thinners or certain steroid medications
You are unable to attend follow-up appointments or access emergency care if needed
You have known allergies to the drugs used in the abortion pill process

An ultrasound is an essential first step. It can confirm how far along you are, determine the location of the pregnancy, and assess viability (whether the pregnancy is progressing)—all of which are critical in evaluating your options. Depending on your eligibility, we may be able to provide you with an ultrasound at no cost.

Get Support Today

If you are facing an unexpected pregnancy, having the right education can help you feel empowered in your decision-making.

At Crossroads, we offer no-cost pregnancy testing and, if you qualify, an ultrasound. Our compassionate, non-judgmental team is here to walk alongside you in a safe and confidential space.

Crossroads does not provide or refer for abortions.

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

Sources:

1. 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

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