Any abortion procedure comes with inherent side effects and risks you should understand. But more factors come into play with an online (or “at-home”) abortion.

The “abortion pill,” or medical abortion, uses two medications to end a pregnancy. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, and misoprostol causes uterine contractions and expels the pregnancy tissue from the uterus. 

With an online abortion, you order these medications on the Internet, typically after a single telehealth appointment, and they are delivered to your door. The abortion takes place at your home, and it is your responsibility to receive follow-up care. 

This method poses safety risks you must know about. Continue reading to learn more.

1. Lack of Medical Supervision

One telehealth appointment doesn’t guarantee your eligibility for this procedure. If you’re past ten weeks gestation, you aren’t eligible for a medical abortion. 

Without fully understanding the procedure, asking necessary questions, and reviewing your medical history with a provider, your health could be at risk. And certain factors, like having an IUD or bleeding disorder, can make you ineligible for the procedure.

Undergoing a ultrasound is crucial to receive pregnancy details like viability, gestational age, and location. You need this information to make an informed decision. 

Moreover, conditions like ectopic pregnancy (which always requires treatment) and miscarriage are detected by a ultrasound. Purchasing abortion pills online does not require a ultrasound, which means these complications could go undetected.

2. Will You Receive the Correct Medications?

Often, these abortion medications are sent from overseas pharmacies. There’s no guarantee you’ll receive the correct medication or dosage, which could further jeopardize your health.

Taking medications improperly and without proper medical oversight can cause serious physical harm. It’s not a risk worth taking. 

3. No Follow-Up Care

With any medical procedure, you need proper follow-up care and access to emergency treatment if necessary. 

You may not know what to watch out for if you’re not in network with a provider when taking these medications. A high fever, severe bleeding, and other signs could indicate complications like infection. 

Lack of follow-up care can make it challenging to pinpoint concerning symptoms and ensure you receive treatment. Your health must be the priority. 

Here For You

Embrace provides no-cost, confidential services like limited ultrasound and options information. Women with unexpected pregnancies will receive the care they need. 

Contact Embrace today to schedule an appointment.