As a supposedly “safe” alternative to surgical abortion, the chemical abortion process – commonly referred to as the “abortion pill” – has become increasingly popular. And with rising access to it through online services, its popularity is only increasing. Many would praise this as a step forward for women’s health, but the reality is that it marks a dangerous shift in medical care for women. Getting the abortion pill online can be dangerous as there are many risks involved. In this post, we will discuss some of the pitfalls and potential for harm that can come from ordering the abortion pill online.
Firstly, it is important to understand that the abortion pill is a serious medication that should only be taken under medical supervision. While often referred to as “the abortion pill”, this abortion process actually consists of taking two separate medications: mifepristone and misoprostol:
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- Mifepristone: This is the first pill. It works by blocking progesterone, which is needed to sustain a pregnancy. Some women experience nausea or bleeding after taking Mifepristone.
- Misoprostol: This is the second pill and it works by stimulating contractions in order to expel the embryo from the uterus. Cramping and bleeding are typical during this part of the process.
If taken incorrectly or without medical supervision, these medications can be very dangerous. Self-administering such a potent combination of medicines is risky at best, as they can cause serious complications such as incomplete abortion, heavy and prolonged bleeding, infection, fever, and harm to your digestive system.
Without proper consultations with a medical professional, you may not realize if you are at higher risk for complications. According to The Mayo Clinic, the abortion pill should absolutely not be taken in certain circumstances:
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- Your pregnancy is more than 9 weeks developed
- You are currently using an IUD
- You are experiencing an ectopic pregnancy
- You are taking blood thinners or steroids
- You have certain medical conditions such as a bleeding disorder, a heart or blood vessel disease, liver disease, kidney disease, lung disease, or an uncontrolled seizure disorder.
- An allergy to mifepristone or misoprostol
Another danger of getting the abortion pill online is that there is often no way to verify the authenticity or quality of the medication. Some online pharmacies sell counterfeit or substandard drugs, which can be ineffective or even toxic. Without proper quality control, there is no way to know what is in the pills or how they were made. This can put women at risk of even more serious complications, including hemorrhage, infection, and sepsis.
Additionally, taking the abortion pill can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Many women that are considering an abortion, whether chemical or surgical, do not realize the emotional and mental toll that it can take. With online services, there is no face-to-face interaction or counseling to help women deal with the physical and emotional aftermath of the procedure. This can leave women feeling isolated and unsupported, potentially leading to depression or other psychological issues.
In conclusion, while the availability of abortion pills online may seem like a convenient and safe option for women, there are many dangers involved. Women who are considering getting the abortion pill online should be aware of the risks and should seek help and education from a qualified source before making a decision. At Ramona Women’s Clinic, we understand the importance of informed decision-making, which is why we provide services and resources for women to make the choice that is best for them and their bodies. Our services are free and confidential, and we will always provide you with support without judgment or pressure. Contact us today for more information or to book an appointment!
