If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and thinking about taking the abortion pill, also known as a medical abortion, there are many factors to consider: namely, is it a legal option? And are there potential risks?
Read on to learn more about the legality of the abortion pill and why the drugs come with risks.
How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
The “abortion pill” consists of two different drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone works by blocking the hormone progesterone in a pregnant woman’s body. Since progesterone is needed to sustain a pregnancy, the sudden lack causes the pregnancy to end.
Misoprostol works by causing the uterus to contract and ultimately expel the pregnancy through the vagina.
What’s the Current Controversy with the Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill has been making news lately due to a case that happened in a Texas courtroom. In Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA, the advocacy group claims that the FDA didn’t have the authority to approve the abortion pill. While the Texas judge sided with the advocacy group, the Supreme Court overturned the ruling.
This means that the abortion pill will remain widely available, but legal battles continue. Currently, the abortion pill is legal to obtain in Pennsylvania, but there are certain factors that could make this an unsafe option.
Health Risks of the Abortion Pill
The abortion pill is only FDA-approved if the pregnancy is less than 10 weeks. Furthermore, it’s not recommended if you’re taking certain medications, such as steroids, or if you have specific conditions, such as severe anemia, bleeding disorders, or heart disease.
The abortion pill comes with potential risks, the most common of which include heavy bleeding, infection, and incomplete abortion.
Where Can I Get More Information?
It’s important to know all the facts so that you can make an informed decision about what to do next. At A Woman’s Concern, we’re here to walk alongside you. We offer free and confidential pregnancy resources and information that can help empower you to make the best choice for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment in a caring, judge-free environment.
