15 July 2024

The abortion pill and Plan B are different drugs with different intended purposes: the abortion pill terminates an existing pregnancy, while Plan B aims to prevent pregnancy from occurring.

This article will highlight how these drugs work and more about their differences. However, if you want to talk to someone in person about a potential pregnancy and your reproductive health, contact A Woman’s Concern today to schedule a free, confidential appointment.

What is Plan B?

Plan B, also known as the morning-after pill, is a form of emergency contraception intended to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (such as a broken condom).

Plan B contains a high dose of levonorgestrel, a hormone found in many birth control pills. It works primarily by delaying ovulation, which prevents the release of an egg from the ovary. However, if ovulation has already occurred, Plan B may also alter the uterine lining to prevent a fertilized egg from implanting.

Plan B is most effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex but can reduce the risk of pregnancy if taken within five days.

What is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill, also known as a medical abortion, is a method used to terminate an existing pregnancy. It involves the use of two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol.

Mifepristone is taken first and works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for a pregnancy to continue. Without progesterone, the lining of the uterus breaks down, and the pregnancy ends.

Misoprostol, taken 24 to 48 hours later, induces contractions and expels the pregnancy from the uterus and out through the vagina.

Key Differences Between Plan B and the Abortion Pill

Wondering more about how Plan B and the abortion pill differ? Here are the top differences:

Purpose:

Plan B: Prevents ovulation or implantation after unprotected sex.
Abortion Pill: Terminates an existing pregnancy.

How It Works:

Plan B: Delays ovulation and may prevent fertilization or implantation.
Abortion Pill: Blocks necessary hormones and induces uterine contractions to terminate a pregnancy.

Availability:

Plan B: Available over the counter without a prescription.
Abortion Pill: Requires a prescription and is usually administered under medical supervision (can also be found online without a prescription, but the FDA advises against this because it puts your safety at risk).