If an unexpected pregnancy occurs when you’re simply not prepared to take on a child right now, pursuing a medication abortion after only a telehealth visit seems like an appealing private and hassle-free option at first glance.
Do your research since this option often skips preventative health screenings.
Ordering Online Skips Important Health Screenings
Obtaining abortion pills online without proper medical evaluation means missing out on important screening procedures like pregnancy testing and ultrasound exams.
These screenings allow medical professionals to confirm gestational age for medication eligibility and safety purposes—for example, the FDA-approved only for pregnancies through 10 weeks of gestational age.
An ultrasound can also identify potential complications like ectopic pregnancies or miscarriages that require treatment other than an abortion.
You May Not Qualify for the Abortion Pill
According to the Mayo Clinic, some conditions can disqualify you from the abortion pill. These include if:
- The pregnancy gestational age has passed the FDA approval window
- You have an intrauterine device (IUD)
- You have certain medical conditions
- Take a blood thinner or certain steroid medicines
- Don’t have access to emergency care or make follow-up appointments
- You have an allergy history with the medication used
The Abortion Pill Comes with Risks
All medical procedures come with a degree of some risk. According to the Mayo Clinic, these risks can include:
- Incomplete abortion, which may require a follow-up surgical abortion
- An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure is unsuccessful
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
Next Step: Free Pregnancy Services
The Pregnancy Help Center of West Houston offers free pregnancy services such as pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and confidential options consultations.
Our center is a safe, compassionate environment where you can learn more about your pregnancy through free testing and ultrasounds, explore options, and connect to local resources.
Contact us today to schedule a free and confidential appointment!