Is an Online Abortion Safe?

Thinking about an online abortion? An online abortion means ordering abortion drugs online instead of receiving them in a clinic during an appointment or from a reputable pharmacy.

Is it a safe option? No. The FDA advises against seeking abortion drugs online (opens in a new tab) because they are outside the US supply chain—which means the FDA can’t guarantee their source, quality, or effectiveness.

Before seeking an online abortion, it’s critical to learn all you can about the risks involved to make a safe, informed decision. Looking for a safe, confidential space to learn more about abortion and your other options? Schedule an appointment at The Well Clinic.

How do the abortion drugs work?

You might have heard that abortion drugs (opens in a new tab) are “as safe as Tylenol,” but this simply isn’t true. These drugs are powerful.

The first drug, mifepristone, blocks the naturally occurring hormone progesterone. Without progesterone, your uterine lining will thin, causing the pregnancy to detach and end.

The second drug, misoprostol, causes your uterus to contract and expel your pregnancy from your uterus through abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding.

While this describes the working mechanism behind the FDA-approved abortion drugs—this won’t necessarily apply to the abortion drugs you can find online, as you wouldn’t be able to verify they are the correct drugs or dosage.

How will the abortion drugs affect me?

The abortion drugs will cause vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping. Some women have reported (opens in a new tab) that the pain they feel during a medical abortion is unexpectedly severe. You may also experience side effects like upset stomach, vomiting, fever, chills, diarrhea, and headache.

Furthermore, some women are disturbed to see their embryo or fetus after it passes.

What are the risks of the abortion drugs?

The abortion drugs are associated with risks (opens in a new tab) that are rare but can be life-threatening.

An incomplete abortion (opens in a new tab) is one of the primary risks. This condition occurs when parts of the terminated pregnancy remain in your uterus, and it can quickly lead to a serious infection, pelvic pain, and severe bleeding (opens in a new tab).

How can I protect my health?

Getting an ultrasound scan is an essential way to protect your health before seeking an abortion—or making any pregnancy decision.

At The Well Clinic, we offer free, limited ultrasounds because you deserve to be equipped with the information you need to stay safe.

An ultrasound will tell you your pregnancy’s gestational age, location, and whether it is progressing, which are critical details you need to know.

Before making any pregnancy decision, you can schedule your free, limited ultrasound appointment.

The Well Clinic does not perform or refer for abortions. We provide accurate information about every option so you can make an informed decision.