If you’ve recently had unprotected sex or your birth control failed, you may be wondering if you should take the abortion pill or Plan B. The two often get confused, but their purpose is very different. The abortion pill ends a pregnancy. Plan B prevents a pregnancy from occurring. Let’s take a closer look at both.
If you’re concerned and want to speak with someone in person, please call (580) 536-4040 or text us at (405) 362-6008. We’ll be happy to answer your questions.
What Does the Abortion Pill Do?
The abortion pill method uses two drugs to terminate a pregnancy. The first drug, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone. Every pregnancy needs progesterone to grow and develop, so without it, the pregnancy ends.
The second drug, misoprostol, causes bleeding and contractions to expel the pregnancy and tissue from the body.
The FDA approves the use of the abortion drugs through 10 weeks of pregnancy only. In addition to bleeding and cramping, the side effects include nausea, chills, and diarrhea.
There are possible physical and emotional risks, such as an incomplete abortion, heavy and prolonged bleeding, or an infection. Some women report mental health issues following their abortions, too.
What Does Plan B Do?
Plan B, also called the “morning-after” pill, is considered a form of emergency contraception used to reduce the chance of pregnancy. It should never be used as a regular form of contraception. Plus, it doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
It’s essential to take Plan B within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex, although you can take it up to 5 days after. It may delay your next period. If you don’t get your period within three weeks after taking the pill, you should take a pregnancy test.
The side effects include an upset stomach and possibly vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, and pain or cramps in the stomach area.
You’re advised not to take the morning-after pill if you are allergic to its ingredients, take certain medications, or are overweight or obese.
How Do I Find Out if I’m Pregnant?
A missed period and a positive pregnancy test usually indicate pregnancy, but you may need an ultrasound to confirm it. Visit the Pregnancy Resource Center for free and confidential services.
We offer free pregnancy testing administered by a registered nurse. Depending on the results of your test, we may recommend a free limited ultrasound. An ultrasound confirms if your pregnancy is developing, how far along you are, and its location.
You can also receive the same free pregnancy services at our Mobile Medical Unit. Contact the Pregnancy Resource Center for the times and locations when our Mobile Medical Unit will be near you.
You can also conveniently schedule an appointment by filling out our online contact form. You deserve to have the facts about the abortion pill and Plan B. Talk with us today.
The Pregnancy Resource Center does not perform or refer for abortion.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.