It’s easy to experience “information overload” when researching contraception and abortion procedures online. Not surprisingly, many people experience confusion over the differences between the abortion pill and the morning-after pill. While they may lead to a similar outcome (non-pregnancy), these two forms of medication generally serve different purposes. Before taking any further steps regarding these medications, it’s important to know the differences between them.
Do you have questions about emergency contraception and how it compares to the abortion pill? Avenue Women’s Center is here to provide you with accurate information. If you think you may be unexpectedly pregnant, one of our expert staff can discuss the differences between emergency contraception and the abortion pill in a safe, private, nonjudgmental environment. You can get clarity by taking a free medical-grade pregnancy test at Avenue!
Call, text, chat, or email us for an appointment today!
*Avenue Women’s Center is a first-step pregnancy center that provides limited medical services at no cost. We do not provide or refer for the morning-after pill or the abortion pill.
What Is the Morning-After Pill?
The morning-after pill is a type of emergency contraception that’s used shortly after intercourse to prevent an unexpected pregnancy. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Most morning-after pills contain one of two types of medicine: levonorgestrel (Plan B One-Step, Fallback Solo, others) or ulipristal acetate (ella, Logilia).” It should be noted that morning-after pills are backup forms of birth control, and they are not intended to be used as a primary method of contraception. They generally work by delaying or preventing ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovaries) (Mayo Clinic).
The morning-after pill is not right for individuals who have an allergy to any of its components or who use certain medications that would decrease the pill’s effectiveness. According to the Mayo Clinic, potential side effects of the morning-after pill may last a few days, and may include the following:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Breast tenderness
- Bleeding between periods or heavier menstrual bleeding
- Lower abdominal pain or cramps
What Is the Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill is actually a series of two drugs taken in pill form. The first pill (mifepristone) can be taken at the doctor’s office or abortion clinic where it’s prescribed, or at home. The second pill (misoprostol) is usually taken 24-48 hours later at home. The abortion pill (also called medication abortion or medical abortion) is designed to end an existing pregnancy. Mifepristone, the active ingredient in the first pill, blocks the pregnancy hormone progesterone, causing the uterine lining to thin. This causes the pregnancy to detach from the uterus and stop growing. Misoprostol, the active ingredient in the second pill, causes cramping and contractions so the body can expel the uterine contents (Mayo Clinic).
Before you move forward with a medical abortion, it’s recommended that you gather more information. According to Mayo Clinic, the abortion pill may not be administered to you if you:
- Are too far along in your pregnancy
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD)
- Have a suspected ectopic pregnancy
- Have certain conditions like a bleeding disorder or an uncontrolled seizure disorder
- Take blood thinners or steroid medications
- Have an allergy to mifepristone or misoprostol
- Cannot make follow-up visits with a doctor or don’t have access to emergency medical care
There may be side effects to the abortion pill, and these may include (Mayo Clinic):
- Vaginal bleeding
- Cramping
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Key Takeaways
As you seek to understand the differences between the morning-after pill and the abortion pill, be sure to keep these key takeaways in mind!
- The morning-after pill and the abortion pill are composed of different types of drugs.
- The morning-after pill and the abortion pill serve different purposes. The morning-after pill is intended to prevent a pregnancy from taking place, and the abortion pill is intended to terminate a pregnancy that already exists. These specific functions are not interchangeable.
- The morning-after pill and the abortion pill come with unique risks and side effects. Depending on your medical history and other factors, one or both of these medications may not be right for you. It’s important to consult a qualified medical professional before taking either.
If you have questions about the morning-after pill or the abortion pill, Avenue Women’s Center is here to offer accurate information. We can meet with you to discuss the processes and risks involved with all your pregnancy options. In addition to a private consultation, we can provide you with a free limited ultrasound exam. This can help you learn important information about your pregnancy like how far along you are, which can clarify your next best steps.
Reach out today to speak with our caring staff about your unexpected pregnancy options!
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References:
Mayo Clinic. (2024, June). Medical abortion. Retrieved from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/medical-abortion/about/pac-20394687
Mayo Clinic. (2024, July). Morning-after pill. Retrieved from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/morning-after-pill/about/pac-20394730
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.