Looking into abortion procedures involves many questions. How early can you get an abortion? How much does an abortion cost? How much is the abortion pill? What about abortion risks? Maybe one question that’s circling your mind is, “Can I do an abortion at home?”
Avenue Women’s Center is the first step for women who are facing an unexpected pregnancy. We can help provide answers to your questions as well as other information regarding your pregnancy options.
If you’re near the Chicagoland area, contact us right away for an appointment at one of our five locations. We offer virtual consultations too!
Abortion at Home: A Few General Concerns
When you don’t want to face the cost of abortion or are concerned about others finding out, you may ask, “What about an abortion at home?” There are important things to know about a “DIY,” self-induced, or “homemade” abortion – and reasons NOT to pursue this.
- Terminating a pregnancy is a serious medical procedure.
- Any procedure comes with risks, and women need to be under a doctor’s care to ensure their safety.
- It’s important for any abortion provider to have the ability to provide necessary surgical intervention and/or emergency care should it be needed.
- A woman’s health and safety must always come first. An individual should never risk her own health in an attempt to save money.
- The internet is full of misinformation. Some methods will not work. Other methods will put your health at risk. Some may be extremely dangerous.
- Every woman’s medical situation is unique. Something that worked for one person may not work or be medically appropriate for every woman. This is another reason why it’s important to consult a qualified medical professional before getting an abortion.
- Products purchased over the internet are not always manufactured, stored and labeled according to best practices. You may think you are ordering the correct product, but it may not be what you want.
What About Buying the Abortion Pill Online?
Maybe you’ve heard that the abortion pill can be purchased online. This option may seem easy, convenient, and discreet. Online retailers may appear professional. However, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) does not recommend purchasing the abortion pill online.
Abortion pills bought online or outside of the United States would not fall within the protective boundaries of the Mifepristone REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy) Program (FDA). The Mifepristone REMS Program was established to set requirements ensuring that mifepristone (the first drug of the abortion pill regimen) would be safely prescribed to consumers. According to the FDA, the Mifepristone REMS program currently includes these and other regulations:
- “Mifepristone must be prescribed by a health care provider that meets certain qualifications and is certified under the Mifepristone REMS Program.”
- “The Patient Agreement Form must be reviewed with and signed by the patient and the health care provider, and the risks of the mifepristone treatment regimen must be fully explained to the patient before mifepristone is prescribed.”
- “Mifepristone may only be dispensed by or under the supervision of a certified prescriber, or by a certified pharmacy on a prescription issued by a certified prescriber.”
*Because abortion laws differ significantly from state to state, it’s critical that you check your own state’s laws and requirements before moving forward with an abortion.
An abortion at home is not a safe solution. Please contact us at Avenue Women’s Center. We will provide you with a free options consultation and support for the obstacles you are facing. Additionally, Avenue offers lab-quality pregnancy tests and limited medical ultrasounds at no cost. We’re passionate about equipping women with the information, support, and resources they need to make a safe and confident pregnancy choice.
Reference:
U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). (2025, January). Information about Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. Retrieved from: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/information-about-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.