The abortion pill and Plan B are distinct drugs that are used for very different purposes: the abortion pill terminates and expels a viable (living) pregnancy, while Plan B is an emergency contraceptive that’s used to prevent pregnancy from occurring.
Read on to learn more about the distinctions between the abortion pill and Plan B. Or, if you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy and looking for resources, contact Pregnancy Help Center today to be connected to our caring team. All appointments are no-cost and private.
How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
The abortion pill is actually a series of two different, powerful drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone is taken first, and it works by blocking progesterone in your body. This hormone is needed to sustain a pregnancy, and without it, your pregnancy is starved of its nutrient-rich uterine lining and ends.
Misoprostol causes your uterus to cramp, which then expels the terminated pregnancy through your vagina.
How Does Plan B Work?
Plan B, also known as the “morning-after pill,” is an emergency contraception (birth control) that can be taken up to 72 hours after your routine birth control method has failed.
Plan B will not end a pregnancy that is already established. Instead, it prevents pregnancy by delaying ovulation.
I Think I Might Be Pregnant. What Should I Do?
If your regular birth control method has failed and it’s been less than 72 hours, you can still take Plan B.
If it’s been 72 hours, and you’re worried you might be pregnant, taking a pregnancy test and following up with an ultrasound are the only surefire ways to know for sure. At Pregnancy Help Center, we offer no-cost pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds.
Facing an unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. We’re here for you. Contact us today.