Are you unsure what to do now that you have discovered an unexpected pregnancy? You probably have started researching all of your options.
In Missouri, abortion is illegal, including abortions via the abortion pill.
But, if you are considering traveling out of state to get a prescription for the pill, there are a few things you should know.
How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
Mifepristone, the first part of the abortion pill series, essentially works like a hormone blocker.
Progesterone is a hormone that your body naturally creates when you are pregnant. It supports your pregnancy by thickening the lining of your uterus and delivering nutrients to your womb. When you take mifepristone, you essentially shut down that hormone. Without the nutrients your pregnancy needs, everything in the womb stops growing.
Then you take the second part of the pill series, misoprostol, to initiate abdominal cramping that will make your body expel the pregnancy remains.
This usually takes several hours or days.
What Are the Risks of the Abortion Pill?
If you take certain medications or use certain types of birth control, the abortion pill may not be something you should ingest because you may have a higher risk of complications.
Common risks from the abortion pill include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Incomplete abortion
- Infection
- Heavy bleeding
How Much Does the Abortion Pill Cost?
On average, the abortion pill costs around $500-800. That does not include the cost of an ultrasound or pre-abortion screenings.
You’ll need to factor in costs associated with travel, like gas money, hotels, food, and time off work.
You will also need to consider how much it will cost if there is a complication that requires emergency medical attention. All said and done, a medical abortion can get quite expensive.
What Do I Need to Do Before Taking the Abortion Pill?
Before you take the abortion pill, you will need an ultrasound to confirm how far along you are in your pregnancy because you can’t take the pill past 10 weeks gestation.
You also should research your alternative options to make sure you are making the best decision.
If you are not ready to be a parent, abortion is not your only option–and it may not be the best fit.
Did you know that adoption can actually be a better financial decision than abortion? Adoption agencies will provide financial assistance with every medical cost and even with transportation to and from appointments, maternity clothes, food, and sometimes even housing.
At our clinic, we can offer no-cost ultrasounds and can talk to you about your alternatives to the abortion pill. The more information you have about each option, the more confident you can feel in your choice.
Call us today to schedule a no-cost consultation.