Can I Buy the Abortion Pill Online?
If you’re thinking about the abortion pill, you may be wondering if it’s available for purchase online. While it is technically possible, there are important reasons why you would want to avoid doing so.
The FDA strongly advises against buying the abortion pill online due to significant risks. There are numerous safety concerns to consider, including the potential for counterfeit drugs, improper dosing, and lack of medical oversight.
We’ll go over the abortion pill and what you need to know.
What is the Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill is made up of two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone is used to block the hormone progesterone, while misoprostol causes uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy.
The abortion pill is FDA-approved through 10 weeks gestation (“gestation” is how far along you are). It’s also known as a medical abortion.
Risks of Buying Online
Although buying online seems like a convenient solution, it bypasses necessary safeguards to protect your health.
Counterfeit Drugs
One of the biggest dangers of buying drugs online is the risk of receiving counterfeit or unregulated drugs. Many online sources are not legitimate pharmacies overseen by the FDA, and there’s no way to verify the quality or authenticity of the drugs they sell.
Counterfeit abortion pills may contain incorrect or harmful ingredients, making them ineffective or even dangerous. Without a trusted medical provider to guide you, there’s no way to guarantee that the pills you receive are safe.
Improper Dosing
The abortion pill involves a specific dosage of mifepristone and misoprostol, taken in a particular order. Without proper medical guidance, you risk taking the wrong dose or using the drugs incorrectly, which can lead to serious complications.
An incorrect dose may result in incomplete abortion, excessive bleeding, or other health risks. By attempting to manage the process on your own, you put yourself at greater risk for these potential complications.
Lack of Medical Oversight
One thing you may not be aware of is there are scenarios where you would be ineligible for the abortion pill. These may be things you haven’t considered, such as having an IUD, certain medical conditions, or allergies.
There are also vital details to know about your pregnancy before an abortion, such as your gestational age, if your pregnancy is located in the uterus, and if it’s progressing.
Furthermore, without medical support, you may not know how to respond to complications such as severe pain, heavy bleeding, or signs of infection, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Before Scheduling an Abortion
Visit Crossroads to receive no-cost pregnancy services and get informed about your options. A limited obstetric ultrasound performed by our trained nurse can provide you with answers.
We’re here for you to provide the support and resources you need during this crucial time. All our appointments are confidential in a safe, judgment-free environment.
Contact us to make your no-cost appointment today.
Crossroads does not perform or refer for abortions.
*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
Sources:
Medical abortion – Mayo Clinic. (n.d.-b). https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/medical-abortion/about/pac-20394687
Information about Mifepristone for medical termination of pregnancy through ten weeks gestation. (n.d.). FDA.gov. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/information-about-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation