Are Plan B and the abortion pill (RU-486) the same thing? If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, perhaps you’re wondering what choices are available to you. It’s normal to have questions about emergency contraception and the abortion pill. It can feel confusing and overwhelming to sort through multiple options. Learning more about the differences between Plan B and RU-486 can provide you with the information you need to make a decision. Where can you go in or near Wood Dale for answers to your pregnancy-related questions?
Are you hoping to learn more about how Plan B and RU-486 work? Avenue Women’s Center has been providing reliable information about unexpected pregnancy options since 1981. Our expert pregnancy consultants can meet with you for a private consultation. We’ll walk you through each of your choices, helping you find answers to your questions. Within a nonjudgmental environment, we’ll talk with you about abortion, the different abortion methods, and abortion alternatives.
Contact us today to set up an appointment in Wood Dale, or any of our offices in Darien, Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn / Lombard, Naperville, or West Chicago, Illinois!
Where Can I Locate Information About the Morning After Pill in Wood Dale?
A healthcare provider or a first-step options clinic can chat with you about emergency contraception. You may be wondering if it’s possible to take something like Plan B to prevent an unexpected pregnancy. Perhaps you forgot to use contraception during intercourse. Or, you suspect your preferred birth control method has failed.
Can taking Plan B prevent you from becoming pregnant? Does this hormonal contraceptive work like the RU-486?
Plan B is most effective when taken within 72 hours after intercourse. It may be used to delay or stop ovulation in order to keep you from becoming pregnant. Generally, morning-after pills like Plan B are intended to serve as backup contraception. Plan B is not meant to be used as a primary birth control method.
Discuss any potential allergies to the components in Plan B with a medical professional. You may also want to talk about any medications you’re currently taking. This can let you know if certain drugs could potentially reduce Plan B’s effectiveness.
Potential Side Effects of Plan B
Taking the time to educate yourself about possible side effects can be helpful. That way you can have a better idea about how to respond and know what treatments you may need. Some of the side effects associated with Plan B may include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Breast tenderness
- Heavier menstrual bleeding
- Lower abdominal pain or cramps
How Can I Learn More About the Abortion Pill in Wood Dale?
RU-486 works a little differently than Plan B. The technical term for the abortion pill is medical abortion. This usually means ending your pregnancy without surgery or anesthesia. Instead, you may be given two pills – mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone may be taken at a doctor’s office or clinic. It blocks the progesterone hormone needed to continue the pregnancy. Misoprostol is typically taken at your home. You may need to schedule a follow-up appointment afterward to ensure the abortion was complete. This dosage of RU-486 may cause your uterus to contract and expel the uterine content from your body.
A helpful next step is to gather information to see if you’re eligible for the abortion pill. The pill may not be given to you if:
- You have an intrauterine device (IUD) inserted
- An ultrasound exam finds the pregnancy is ectopic
- You suffer from a bleeding disorder or an uncontrolled seizing disorder
- You’re allergic to the components in RU-486
- You cannot meet with a provider for a follow-up visit
- You’re currently taking blood thinners or steroid medications
Potential Side Effects of RU-486
Researching potential side effects associated with the pill can be important. Knowing what to expect can give you an idea about what to look for and what treatments to seek.
Some common side effects associated with taking RU-486 may include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever
- Diarrhea
If more serious side effects arise, you may need to seek medical attention. These may include:
- Heavy bleeding
- Fever that persists more than 24 hours
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Severe abdominal or back pain
A professional resource can help you sort through this information about Plan B and RU-486. There’s often a lot to process when it comes to making an unexpected pregnancy decision. Knowing where you can go in Wood Dale for answers can connect you to the support you need.
If you have questions about Plan B or RU-486, Avenue Women’s Center is here to offer accurate information. We can meet with you to discuss all your options. On top of a private consultation, we can provide you with a free, limited ultrasound exam. This can help you learn more about your pregnancy and how far along you may be. Receive information and resources needed for your next steps.
Reach out today to speak with our caring staff about your unexpected pregnancy choices!
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References:
- Mayo Clinic. Morning-after pill. Retrieved from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/morning-after-pill/about/pac-20394730
- Mayo Clinic. Medical abortion. Retrieved from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/medical-abortion/about/pac-20394687
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.