A pill seems to be a go-to solution for many physical needs today, from a headache to an unwanted pregnancy. Our nurses at We Care are seeing more and more women utilizing the Morning After Pill as a source of emergency contraception after the fact. There has similarly been a rise in the use of the Abortion Pill (not to be confused with the Morning After Pill) for first-trimester abortions. There are some key differences to these options and some important things to know.
Despite their similar names, the Morning After Pill and the Abortion Pill serve very different purposes. It’s not uncommon for young women to mistakenly believe that the Morning After Pill functions like the Abortion Pill, highlighting the need for clear and accurate information about these options.
Morning After Pill
The Morning After Pill is classified as an emergency contraceptive to be used in situations of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. This pill is recommended to be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. Functionally, it exposes your body to a high dose of hormones intended to keep the sperm and egg from meeting. If the egg has already been fertilized, The Morning After Pill creates an environment in which the egg cannot implant in the uterus wall. This will not affect an established pregnancy (an implanted egg).
Abortion Pill
The Abortion Pill (which is a series of 2 pills) is only effective in an already-established pregnancy. It can be used up until 10 weeks past your last known period. In this case, the first pill cuts off the progesterone to the baby, which will cause the baby to die. Then, the 2nd pill, taken up to 72 hours later, will cause the baby to be expelled from the uterus.
Possible Negative Side Affects
It is important to be aware of the potential side effects of both the Morning After Pill and the Abortion Pill. This knowledge will help you prepare for any complications that may arise if you choose this medication. Both medications have reported experiences of severe cramping. The Morning After Pill can have possible outcomes of irregular periods, delayed ovulation, nausea, and cramps. With the Abortion Pill, there are potential side effects such as heavy bleeding*, cramping, possible hemorrhaging, and incomplete abortion, among other things.
If you find yourself in a situation where you’re considering the Morning After Pill or the Abortion Pill, we highly recommend reaching out to us at We Care Pregnancy Clinic. We can provide you with the information and support you need to make the best decision for your reproductive health.
*if you choose this method of abortion, we highly recommend you have a friend or family member with you in case of possibly life-threatening side effects.
Before You Decide. 2019: 6;15-3. Print.