Because the abortion pill is composed of two powerful drugs, certain factors mean you may not be eligible for it.
Where your pregnancy is located, how far along you are, and what medications or medical conditions you have can all determine whether you’re eligible for the abortion pill.
Keep reading to learn about abortion pill eligibility and if you qualify or not.
How Far Along Are You?
The abortion pill is only FDA-approved to terminate early pregnancies. If you are into your 10th week, your pregnancy is too far along to utilize the abortion pill.
Taking the abortion pill outside of the approved window of time can cause serious complications like incomplete abortion and infection. In some cases, a surgical abortion may be required to complete the abortion.
Is Your Pregnancy Ectopic?
In a healthy pregnancy, the embryo implants in the uterine wall. In an ectopic pregnancy, the embryo implants somewhere outside of the uterus, most often in the Fallopian tubes.
An ectopic pregnancy is nonviable, meaning it cannot develop to full term. It can also pose a significant risk to your health, so should be examined and treated by a physician.
The abortion pill does not terminate an ectopic pregnancy. Medical attention is needed, and sometimes surgery is necessary to remove the pregnancy.
Wondering how to tell if you have an ectopic pregnancy? Vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain are some of the early symptoms. An ultrasound can confirm a pregnancy is developing outside of the uterus.
What Else Might Make You Ineligible for the Abortion Pill?
In addition to ectopic pregnancy or being too far along, there are other reasons you may not be eligible to take the abortion pill. The Mayo Clinic outlines these additional reasons:
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD).
- Have certain medical conditions, including bleeding disorders, certain heart or blood vessel diseases, severe liver, kidney or lung disease, or an uncontrolled seizure disorder.
- Take a blood thinner or certain steroid medications.
- Can’t make follow-up visits to your doctor or don’t have access to emergency care.
- Have an allergy to the medications used.
What Should You Do Before Taking the Abortion Pill?
To help determine if you are eligible for the abortion pill, you should get an ultrasound exam.
An ultrasound will reveal whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus or not, how far along you are, and if the pregnancy is viable and growing.
An ultrasound is a way to make sure you’re able to make a fully-informed decision before deciding to take the abortion pill.
We offer ultrasound referrals from trusted medical professionals that you can access for free. You’ll be able to review the results of the ultrasound, ask any questions you may have, and learn more about your options.
Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation and referral. We’re here for you!
Note: Life Light does not refer for or provide abortions, abortion services, or the abortion pill.