How to Prepare for an Abortion Pill
If you think you might be pregnant and are considering an abortion, you're likely exploring all your options. The abortion pill is one such option—but before moving forward, it’s important to make sure you have the right information and support.
Need answers right now? Chat anonymously with a nurse—completely free—by texting 218-304-9591.
Medical Abortion Checklist
1. Be Certain You Are Actually Pregnant
While this may seem like an obvious step, it’s easy to skip over in a moment of stress. A lab-quality pregnancy test and an ultrasound are essential to confirm pregnancy before taking the abortion pill.
The abortion pill should never be taken unless you are medically confirmed to be pregnant, and it should only be taken under professional medical supervision.
2. Know the Status and Stage of Fetal Development
It’s important to know that 10%–20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage.¹ A pregnancy test alone can’t determine if the pregnancy is viable (meaning it is developing properly and has not miscarried or implanted outside the uterus).²
An ultrasound is the only way to confirm this. It also provides critical information about how far along the pregnancy is. The FDA has approved the abortion pill for pregnancies up to 70 days (or 10 weeks) from the first day of your last period.³ An ultrasound helps ensure you’re within that safe timeframe.
3. Make Sure This is Your Decision
Pregnancy is life-changing, and the decision to carry or terminate affects more than just your body—it can impact your emotional and relational well-being, too. You may be feeling pressure from a partner, family member, or friend. But no one—not even someone close to you—has the right to force or manipulate you into an abortion.
You are legally protected from being coerced into any decision. If you're feeling pressured or unsure, know that you're not alone. Northwoods Pregnancy Center offers a safe, confidential space where you can get honest, accurate information and judgment-free support.
4. Know The Risks
Abortion, like any medical procedure, comes with physical and emotional risks. It’s important to be informed before making a final decision.
For example, having an undiagnosed or untreated sexually transmitted infection (STI) can increase your risk of complications. During a surgical abortion, an untreated STI like chlamydia can spread into the reproductive system, potentially leading to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), which can increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy or infertility.⁴
It's essential to feel firm and confident in your decision before proceeding. Some people experience emotional or spiritual challenges afterward, including sadness or regret.
Abortion Consultation Services
If you have questions about the abortion pill—or just need to talk through your options—Northwoods Pregnancy Center is here to help. We offer free pregnancy services including lab-quality testing, ultrasounds, and confidential consultations.
To speak with someone now, schedule a consultation or text us at 218-304-9591. A certified nurse will be available to answer your questions and guide you through your next steps—with compassion, confidentiality, and no pressure.
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