If you have unprotected sex and are concerned about preventing pregnancy, you might be wondering what to do.
If you have heard about the abortion pill and Plan B, but don’t know the difference, here is everything you need to know:
When you are pregnant, your body creates a hormone called progesterone. This hormone thickens the uterine lining and delivers nutrients to the growing fetus in the womb.
The first part of the abortion pill, Mifepristone, blocks the hormone, stopping the delivery of nutrients and the thickening of the uterine wall. This terminates the pregnancy.
Misoprostol, the second part of the pill series, triggers contraction-like cramping to propel your body to pass the pregnancy remains through the vagina.
Taking the abortion pill can cause any of the following:
While the abortion pill is taken after conception, Plan B is like a mega dose of birth control meant to stop an egg’s fertilization before conception.
Generally, “The morning after pill” is taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. The drug uses either the hormone levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate to reshape the cervix, making it harder for the sperm to reach an egg or for the egg to attach to the uterine wall.
This drug should not be seen as long-term birth control and will not prevent sexually transmitted diseases.
Taking this medication comes with risks that include:
If you think you might be pregnant, the first thing you should do is take a pregnancy test. We can offer a free test at our clinic, along with free and confidential STI testing. We can also answer any questions you may have, and point you toward helpful resources for your next steps.
A potential, unplanned pregnancy might feel scary. But you are going to be OK! We are here to support you every step of the way. Call us today to find help and hope.