Ordering abortion pills online or taking them at home may seem like an easier and more private option, but is it safe? While online or at-home abortions are becoming more common, there are serious medical and safety concerns that women should know before taking this step.
At Women’s Clinics Maryland, we offer accurate information and no-cost services to help you understand your options and protect your health. Schedule a free appointment today to confirm your pregnancy and talk through your next steps.
Safety Factors When Ordering the Abortion Pill Online
While every woman’s experience may differ, some factors make ordering the abortion pill online less safe than alternatives. Read about them below.
No FDA Oversight
The FDA advises against buying abortion drugs online because they cannot guarantee their quality, dosage, and ingredients. You truly don’t know what you are getting.
Drugs from unregulated pharmacies, either illegitimate or overseas, may be counterfeit or contaminated, putting your health at risk.
Missing Initial Health Screenings
When you order abortion pills online, you also miss essential medical screenings, such as an ultrasound. This can prevent you from knowing if your pregnancy is ectopic, which is a serious medical emergency. You may also be farther along than you realize, which can increase your risk of complications.
Shipping Delays
Even if you accurately estimate how far along you are in your pregnancy when ordering drugs online, there is always a chance of major shipping delays. By the time you receive the pills, you could be much farther along than you were originally.
The FDA only approves medical abortion through the first ten weeks of pregnancy. If you are beyond this timeframe, your risks increase when taking the abortion pill.
Lack of Medical Supervision
Without medical supervision, you will be the only one able to identify and respond to warning signs. You might be able to talk with a virtual concierge from the prescriber, but that is not the same as having a legitimate doctor’s oversight.
Limited Physical Assistance
Complications such as heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or a long-lasting fever require immediate medical attention. Without access to a healthcare provider’s office, these situations can become dangerous very quickly. This means that the emergency room may be your only option for quick treatment, which can be expensive depending on your insurance plan.
Protect Your Health First
Before taking the abortion pill or beginning a procedure, it’s essential to confirm your pregnancy and learn how far along you are.
Women’s Clinics Maryland offers free, confidential pregnancy testing and ultrasounds so you can make an informed choice with the facts you need.
Take charge of your health and safety. Schedule your appointment today to talk with a caring professional in a confidential setting.