The abortion pill and Plan B are different drugs that are used for different purposes: the abortion pill terminates an established pregnancy, while Plan B prevents pregnancy from taking place.
This article will explore the differences between these two drugs and the limitations of each. But if you think you might be pregnant and want to learn more about your options, contact Attleboro Women’s Health. All appointments and resources are free and confidential.
How Does Plan B Work?
Plan B, also known as the “morning-after pill,” is an emergency contraceptive that stops pregnancy from occurring by preventing or delaying ovulation.
Plan B is only intended for emergency use, like if your regular birth control method failed. It should not be used as routine backup contraception.
After taking Plan B, you might experience the following side effects:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Breast tenderness
- Bleeding between periods or heavier menstrual bleeding
- Lower abdominal pain or cramps
Plan B isn’t foolproof, which means you can still get pregnant after taking it, and it offers no protection against STDs.
How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
The abortion pill is a combination of two powerful drugs that work together to terminate and expel an existing pregnancy from the uterus.
Due to the way the drugs work, you will experience vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping after taking the drugs. For some women, the pain can be excruciating.
The abortion pill is associated with risks, which are rare but potentially life-threatening and include:
- Incomplete abortion, which is when parts of the terminated pregnancy remain in your uterus
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
The abortion drugs are only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is 10 weeks gestation or under. If you’re considering this abortion method, it’s essential to get an ultrasound to find out how far along you are (we offer this service free of charge).
We’re Here for You
Whether you’re pregnant and contemplating your options or you want to learn more about ways to protect your reproductive health—we’re here for you.
Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential appointment.