Abortion in Missouri became illegal after the Supreme Court reversed Roe V. Wade last June.
But does that include the abortion pill? And if you were to take the pill, what would the aftermath look like?
Here is everything you need to know about the abortion pill.
How Does The Abortion Pill Work?
The abortion pill is a combination of two pills, Mifepristone, and Misoprostol, that block the pregnancy hormone progesterone, which is needed for the pregnancy to grow.
Within 48 hours of taking the pills, your body will expel the fetus and all contents from your uterus through labor-like contractions and bleeding.
What Are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?
Though medication abortion is not as intrusive as surgery, there are still risks. An infection is possible, which would require antibiotics. Also, there is a risk that your uterus may not expel all of its contents, which can require surgical intervention. You also may experience a hemorrhage with your heavy bleeding.
The medication can also cause nausea, cramping, vomiting, and headache. This method is contraindicated for people who use an IUD for birth control. This means taking this medication under these circumstances could put your health at risk and might even lead to death.
How Much Does the Abortion Pill Cost?
According to the researchers at the University of San Francisco, a medication abortion usually costs around $550 when you include the physician visit.
You will also need to factor in costs associated with traveling out of state for that appointment since doctors in Missouri can’t prescribe the pill to you in person.
Getting a prescription for the abortion pill via telemedicine is also illegal in Missouri since abortion in all forms is illegal unless the life of the mother is at risk.
Most doctors in states where abortion is legal will want to see you in person, to get an ultrasound. They will want to confirm you are less than 10 weeks along since the abortion pill can’t be given after that according to the FDA’s regulations.
It is also in your own best interest to see a doctor before taking the abortion pill, to ensure that there are no other complications that could make the procedure dangerous for you.
What Is Your Next Step?
Before you make any decisions regarding the future of your pregnancy, there are some steps you should take.
First, you need to get an ultrasound. This will tell you how far along you are and alert you to any health complications you may be having. You will need to have this information before deciding about abortion because you may be too far along for the abortion pill, and will need to consider other options.
At our clinic, we offer no-cost ultrasounds.
Second, you need to get a pre-abortion consultation. This means you will learn about the risks and side effects of abortion, as well as learn about alternative options.
Our knowledgeable staff can help you find resources and weigh the options that are best for your specific needs.
Even though abortion in Missouri is illegal, you still have more than one option for your unplanned pregnancy. Please contact us today to schedule a no-cost and confidential, no-pressure consultation.