This question, “How long do I have to take the abortion pill?” is probably on the minds of tens of thousands of persons in the United States alone today. It’s a question that’s often loaded with anxiety and confusion. Perhaps you’re experiencing an unexpected pregnancy, and you’re wondering what your timetable looks like to understand what’s going on with your body and how to move forward. A first-step pregnancy center can help you access the clarity you’re looking for.
Avenue Women’s Center exists to help persons coping with circumstances like yours find answers to their burning questions. Our early pregnancy services include medical-grade pregnancy tests and pregnancy consultations among other supportive services. If abortion is a route you’re considering, we’re available to walk you through the processes this would involve, so you feel equipped to step into this decision with confidence.
Reach out to speak with an Avenue team member! We’re here to help answer your questions.
*Within the US, recent changes in abortion legality have made questions about the abortion pill more complex and challenging to navigate. It’s important to check your state’s regulations for the most up-to-date information on abortion legality in your area.
According to the FDA…
As of the date this blog was written, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) regulations state, “Mifeprex (mifepristone) and its generic Mifepristone Tablets, 200 mg (collectively mifepristone) are approved, in a regimen with misoprostol, to end an intrauterine pregnancy through ten weeks gestation (70 days or less since the first day of a patient’s last menstrual period).” In other words, the abortion pill (which is actually two pills- often mifepristone and misoprostol) is FDA-approved through ten weeks. The good news is, most women find out they’re pregnant weeks before that point in time. A missed period is often the early warning sign that prompts persons to take a pregnancy test. Chances are, you have time to process your upcoming pregnancy decision and gather information on the abortion pill (how it works, if it’s a safe choice based on your unique health factors, etc.) before your window closes to utilize this particular abortion method. After that point, surgical abortion would remain a possibility.
5 Questions to Ask Within Your “70 Days” Window
Before taking the abortion pill, it’s important to ask the following questions:
Do I know for sure that I’m pregnant?
Some people panic and try to acquire the abortion pill before attempting to verify the pregnancy. It’s important to confirm that you’re pregnant before taking the abortion pill for your own health. Consider taking a pregnancy test at your doctor’s office or getting a free medical-grade pregnancy at Avenue Women’s Center as a first step to know where you stand. Many of the persons we serve at Avenue are looking to verify a positive result they’ve already received from a home test.
What’s the status of my pregnancy?
Every pregnancy is unique. Gather helpful information about yours to move forward with a well-educated, confident mindset. The age of your pregnancy will influence which abortion method(s) you’re eligible for, as we’ve already discussed. Learn about your chances of miscarrying and the location of your pregnancy too. If it’s ectopic (located outside the uterus), this poses an immediate safety risk, and you’ll need to access medical care outside of an abortion. A limited medical ultrasound can provide all this information, and we offer these for free at Avenue Women’s Center.
What are my pregnancy options?
You have three main options: abortion, adoption, and parenting. But there are options within your options too. There may be different abortion methods available. Nowadays, there are various adoption plans to choose from as well (open, semi-open, and closed adoption). An Avenue pregnancy consultant can give you reliable, straightforward facts about all your options. We present this information with compassion, never judgment.
What are my available resources?
Your community may offer practical resources like financial support or medical aid to help you embrace the pregnancy decision you’re leaning toward. Caring support is a critical resource too! Our team at Avenue is available to be a part of your personal support network as you navigate this unexpected pregnancy. We can also help you connect with additional resources in your area.
Is the option I’m considering right for my health?
Each pregnancy option comes with implications for your physical health. According to Cleveland Clinic, the abortion pill isn’t safe for everyone. And not just those who are too far along! Certain conditions, disorders, medications, and allergies can make the abortion pill a hazardous option. It’s also unsafe to use the abortion pill if you don’t have access to emergency medical care. For all these reasons, it’s very important to consult a qualified medical professional before taking steps to end your pregnancy. If you decide to move forward with the abortion pill, acquire it through a licensed healthcare provider and adhere to medical follow-up recommendations. The FDA does not recommend buying the abortion pill online or bringing it from another country. To do so may put your own health and safety at risk.
If you’re wondering how long you have to take the abortion pill, Avenue is a great first step! We have been serving women in similar situations since 1981. Much has changed in recent times, but we’re as committed as ever to helping you access the information and support you need to lean into the outcome that’s right for you.
Schedule an appointment at one of our six limited medical clinics in the western Chicago metro area!
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References:
- Cleveland Clinic. (2021, October). Medical Abortion. Retrieved from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21899-medical-abortion
- U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). (2023, March). 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
Reviewed by Patricia Kuenzi, APN-CNP, MSN, ANP, PNP.
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.