The abortion pill and Plan B are two very different things. If you are considering an abortion, it’s important to understand the difference between the abortion pill and plan B. They are completely different; one is used to end an existing pregnancy, and the other is used to prevent pregnancy.
What is the Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill (also known as medical abortion) works to terminate an existing pregnancy.
First, mifepristone blocks a hormone called progesterone and ends the pregnancy. Secondly, misoprostol causes bleeding and contraction-like cramping to expel the pregnancy from the body through the vagina.
Some common risks of medical abortion include:
- The body not releasing all pregnancy tissue in the uterus, also called an incomplete abortion. This may require surgical treatment.
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work.
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding.
- Infection.
- Fever.
- Digestive symptoms such as upset stomach.
What is Plan B?
Known as the “morning-after pill,” Plan B is an emergency contraception that is used within 72 hours after sexual intercourse.
Women typically get this at their local pharmacy, which does NOT terminate an already existing pregnancy like abortion does. Plan B works to postpone ovulation to prevent pregnancy from occurring.
Are You Pregnant?
Are you facing an unplanned pregnancy and not sure what’s next? First, confirm your pregnancy details with free and confidential pregnancy confirmation at Echoz. If you receive a positive pregnancy test at Echoz, you may also be eligible for a limited ultrasound at our clinic.
Schedule a free and confidential appointment today to talk about your unique pregnancy situation and what options you have. You are not alone as you navigate this time.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.