If you’ve recently had unprotected sex or think you might be pregnant, you may have heard of both the abortion pill and Plan B. While the names can sound similar, these two drugs work very differently.
The abortion pill is a series of two drugs taken to end an existing pregnancy. Plan B, also called the morning-after pill, is designed to help prevent pregnancy before it happens. Plan B does not end a pregnancy that has already implanted in the uterus.
Here’s more information about how each one works. If you have more questions or need more information if you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, we can help. Contact us to schedule a free and confidential appointment to explore all your options.
How Plan B Works
Pregnancy can only happen if ovulation occurs. During ovulation, a mature egg is released from the ovary and can be fertilized by sperm. Plan B contains a high dose of a hormone that works mainly by delaying or preventing ovulation.
Plan B is considered emergency contraception and is intended for use after contraceptive failure or unprotected sex. It is not always effective in preventing pregnancy and offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
How the Abortion Pill Works
The abortion pill, sometimes called a medical abortion, uses two drugs taken hours or days apart. The first drug blocks progesterone, a hormone needed to maintain pregnancy. Without progesterone, the pregnancy stops growing. The second drug causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.
The abortion pill is only FDA-approved for pregnancies up to 10 weeks and may not be safe for women with certain health conditions or those taking specific medications. Before considering this option, confirming your pregnancy through lab-quality testing and an ultrasound is important. This will determine how far along you are and whether your pregnancy is developing inside the uterus.
Your Next Step
If you’re unsure whether you might be pregnant, the best first step is to confirm your pregnancy with a medical-grade test and an ultrasound. Life Options Clinic provides these services at no cost to you in a private and supportive setting.
We can answer your questions, review your options, and provide the information you need to make a fully informed decision about your next steps. Contact us today to schedule your free and confidential appointment.
Life Options Clinic does not perform or refer for abortions.