January 20, 2023
Yes, it is possible to receive the abortion pill by mail in California. Once the prescription has been written, it can then be shipped directly or sent to a local pharmacy. While it may seem convenient, this method skips several important health screenings that can be crucial to determining the health of the woman.
Open Arms does not provide abortion services or abortion pills, but we can help you with early pregnancy confirmation and education on your options.
HOW DOES THE ABORTION PILL WORK?
The first pill, mifepristone, acts as an antiprogestin and blocks an essential hormone, progesterone, from reaching the pregnancy.
The second medication, misoprostol, is taken 24-48 hours after the first. It induces contractions and expels the fetus. If all the pregnancy tissue is not expelled, you will experience an incomplete abortion. This sometimes requires a surgical procedure to complete the abortion.
DOES THE ABORTION PILL HAVE SIDE EFFECTS?
According to the Mayo Clinic, some side effects may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
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Uterine cramping and vaginal bleeding are common side effects of medication abortion. If, however, you bleed enough to fill two pads per hour in two hours, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Going through the process alone could also be challenging, if you experience some of the above symptoms. Some women also struggle with seeing the fetal remains as they are passed.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I’M ELIGIBLE FOR THE ABORTION PILL?
It’s important to be aware of any pre-existing conditions that could disqualify you from the abortion pill:
- Are too far along in your pregnancy
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD)
- Have a suspected pregnancy outside of the uterus (ectopic pregnancy)
- Have certain medical conditions
- Take a blood thinner or certain steroid medications
- Can’t make follow-up visits to your doctor or don’t have access to emergency care
- Have an allergy to the medications used
An important first step is to have an ultrasound to verify that your pregnancy is non-ectopic as well as verify the age of the pregnancy so you know whether or not the abortion pill is even an option for you.
NEXT STEPS
At Open Arms Pregnancy Clinic, we offer no-cost ultrasound testing which can give you the vital information often skipped with just a telehealth consultation. You can also come in with questions about your options and the pregnancy process.
Our staff will be able to provide medically-accurate information as well as share available resources and help you discuss your options. Call or text us today!
*Note: We specialize in helping those facing unintended pregnancy explore their options. We do not provide abortion or prenatal care and do not profit from your choice.
