Risks of an At-Home Abortion

Online or at-home abortions don’t require in-person medical evaluation. Abortion drugs can be mailed to you, with instructions to take them at home. This process can be dangerous because certain medical conditions may make you ineligible for these drugs, including:

• Pregnancy beyond 10 weeks gestation: The FDA only approves abortion pills for pregnancies up to 10 weeks.

• Ectopic pregnancy: A life-threatening condition where the pregnancy develops outside the uterus.

Without an ultrasound to determine the gestational age and location of your pregnancy, taking abortion drugs could put you at risk of serious complications, such as:

• Incomplete abortion

• Severe bleeding

• Infection

Why an Ultrasound Is Essential

Even if you’re considering FDA-approved abortion drugs from a licensed provider, getting an ultrasound beforehand is crucial.

An ultrasound is a safe, noninvasive scan that provides essential information about your pregnancy, including:

• Gestational age: Confirming how far along you are to ensure you’re within the 10-week limit for medical abortion.

• Pregnancy location: Identifying an ectopic pregnancy, which requires immediate medical attention.

• Pregnancy viability: Confirming if the pregnancy is still developing. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) notes that 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage, and some miscarriages occur without noticeable symptoms.

Without an ultrasound, you risk taking unnecessary or harmful steps without knowing the full picture of your health.

Next Steps

We understand how overwhelming this decision can feel, but you don’t have to face it alone. At 1st Way Pregnancy Support Center, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Before seeking abortion drugs, contact us to schedule a free ultrasound performed by a registered sonographer. This simple step can provide clarity and protect your health.

Your health and safety are our top priority. Let us help you navigate your options with care and understanding.

All abortion information shared in this blog is accurate as of the time of writing.