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Recent court rulings in Texas and Washington may affect future access to abortion pills. As of now, access to abortion pills has not changed.

   Womenrx.org to Guide to Abortion Pill Access. Need Pills? Search by State

How to get abortion pills

Options for at-home abortion pill access will vary by location. Click below to find options by state or territory.

Or, browse a list of state guides
Aberdeen: How to get abortion pills
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Wyoming: How to get abortion pills

Frequently Asked Questions

What are abortion pills?

How do abortion pills work?

Abortion pills typically consist of two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone needed to sustain pregnancy, while misoprostol induces uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy.

Abortion pills work by inhibiting pregnancy hormones (mifepristone) and inducing uterine contractions and bleeding (misoprostol). This combination prompts the termination of pregnancy and its subsequent expulsion from the body, resembling a natural miscarriage. Anticipate several hours of intense bleeding and cramping, followed by several days of milder bleeding.

For a comprehensive understanding, consider viewing the video provided by the International Planned Parenthood Federation, elucidating the intricacies of how abortion pills function.

How early can I take abortion pills?

Abortion pills are most effective in the early stages of pregnancy, up to 10 weeks (70 days) from the first day of your last menstrual period. Confirming the gestational age through an ultrasound is crucial.

What is the process of taking abortion pills?

The process involves taking mifepristone at a healthcare provider's office, followed by misoprostol at home within 24 to 48 hours. This induces bleeding and cramping, leading to the expulsion of the pregnancy.

What can I expect after taking abortion pills?

After taking misoprostol, you'll experience bleeding and cramping similar to a heavy period. The process may involve passing blood clots and tissue. Most people recover within a few days to a couple of weeks.

How effective are abortion pills?

Abortion pills have a high success rate, ranging from about 95% to 98%. Effectiveness may vary based on factors such as gestational age and following the prescribed instructions.

What are the potential side effects of abortion pills?

Common side effects include cramping, bleeding, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. Serious complications are rare but can include heavy bleeding, infection, or incomplete abortion.

How do I get abortion pills?

Abortion pills must be prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider. Consult a provider who specializes in reproductive health for a thorough evaluation and prescription.

The need for a prescription varies. In the United States, abortion pills are typically prescribed medications. However, alternative routes exist where a prescription may not be mandatory.
Abortion clinics, telemedicine services, and select medical offices can provide prescriptions for these pills. Access the "find pills" section to ascertain how to obtain pills in your state.

Moreover, an increasing number of individuals procure abortion pills from online platforms without prescriptions. Others may acquire them from local stores or even across international borders, like Mexico. Acquiring and utilizing pills without formal medical consultation falls under the term "self-managed" abortion. Our Guide to finding pills elucidates these practices, offering insights into how individuals engage with this approach. It's imperative for those contemplating this avenue to comprehend any legal implications.

Suitability of Abortion Pills Throughout Pregnancy Stages

Abortion pills are most effective within the initial 13 weeks of pregnancy. Employing pills during later stages is associated with heightened discomfort and reduced efficacy. As pregnancy advances, the likelihood of complications also escalates. Numerous providers adhere to a 12-week guideline, in alignment with the World Health Organization's recommendation.
This calculator aids in determining your pregnancy's duration, derived from the first day of your most recent regular period. Individuals unaware of their last period's commencement or those with irregular menstrual cycles might require an ultrasound or pelvic examination to accurately determine their pregnancy's week count.

Understanding How much Abortion Pills Costs? An In-Depth Overview

The expense of abortion pills varies widely, ranging from $40 to $600 or beyond:

  • Online ordering and emerging telehealth abortion services may begin at $150.
  • For in-clinic procedures, the average cost is around $600.
    For the Misoprostol-only approach, options include online sources, local stores (bodegas), or international markets, with prices spanning $40 to $300.
  • Numerous services accommodate insurance/Medicaid coverage or provide concessions for individuals facing financial constraints. Feel free to inquire about these options.

Are there any emotional or psychological effects of taking abortion pills?

Emotional experiences vary, but many people feel a mix of emotions. It's important to have a support system in place and consider counseling if needed.

Can I have future pregnancies after taking abortion pills?

In most cases, taking abortion pills does not impact future fertility. Most individuals can conceive and carry pregnancies after a medication abortion.

What should I do if I experience unusual symptoms after taking abortion pills?

Seek medical attention if you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, signs of infection, or any concerning symptoms.

Are abortion pills legally available?

Laws regarding abortion pills vary by region. It's important to be aware of local regulations and consult a qualified healthcare provider.

How can I ensure my privacy and confidentiality when obtaining abortion pills?

Healthcare providers prioritize patient privacy and confidentiality. You can discuss privacy concerns with your provider.

Where can I find reliable information and resources about abortion pills?

Reputable medical sources, healthcare providers, and organizations specializing in reproductive health offer reliable information and resources about abortion pills.

Is This Similar to Plan B, the Morning-After Pill?

No, it's not the same. Distinguishing Between Plan B and Plan C: Abortion Pill Clarification

Plan B functions as emergency contraception, taken within 5 days after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy.

On the other hand, Plan C refers to abortion pills, which are used after a missed period, within 77 days from the first day of your last regular period.

Our belief is that everyone should have access to a range of choices:

  • Plan A encompasses birth control for pregnancy prevention.
  • Plan B involves emergency contraception (also for pregnancy prevention).
  • Plan C entails abortion pills.

How can I find abortion pills?

You can explore various avenues: abortion clinics, telemedicine services, online platforms, or international sources. Research reputable options and consult healthcare providers for guidance.

To access information regarding pill availability in your vicinity, consult our Pills Guide.
Abortion pills can be obtained through:

Clinics: Schedule an in-person consultation with a clinician, acquire pills for home use, and take them in the comfort of your residence. Phone/text support is available for follow-up if required.

Telehealth Services: Conduct a medical consultation via phone or computer (online form or video visit), receive pills via mail, and self-administer them at home. Phone/text support is offered for follow-up if needed.

Online Pill Retailers: Certain international websites offer abortion pills without the need for a prescription, medical screening, or advice. The pills are delivered by mail, and free phone/text support is accessible through MAhotline.org if necessary.

Community Networks: Some state-based abortion support groups like Red State Access extend free assistance to individuals seeking abortion options. Obtain the pills in-person or via mail, take them at home, and utilize free phone/text support via MAhotline.org if desired.

Overseas: In specific instances, abortion pills can be sourced from pharmacies in other countries, such as Mexico. Administer the pills at home and access complimentary phone/text support through MAhotline.org if needed.

Are abortion pills available online?

Yes, many online sources offer abortion pills. Ensure legitimacy by verifying the source's credibility, considering reviews, and seeking recommendations.

Is it Possible to Purchase Abortion Pills on Amazon?

No, abortion pills are not available for purchase on Amazon's online platform.

Numerous online services, however, do offer abortion pills. Further details about these online providers, which deliver pills to all 50 states, can be found in our comprehensive Guide.

Can I get abortion pills without a prescription?

Some places offer abortion pills without a prescription. Clinics, telemedicine, or certain online services may provide prescriptions, while others opt for self-managed abortion.

Are Medical Tests Required?

Typically, a pregnancy test is utilized to confirm pregnancy. Generally, no further medical tests are necessary to obtain abortion pills. However, the clinic or telehealth service may request additional tests under the following circumstances:

1. Uncertainty about your last menstrual period's timing.
2. A history of or symptoms indicating ectopic pregnancy, such as pelvic pain.

Can I Purchase Abortion Pills in Advance? What is Their Shelf Life?

Certainly, you can acquire abortion pills in advance for future use.

Some individuals who are not currently pregnant choose to procure abortion pills and keep them on hand in case of a delayed period. This allows for immediate consumption without prolonged shipping delays. Certain services listed in our Pills Guide offer the option of ordering pills in advance, such as Aid Access, which provides this "advance provision" across all states.

Should you decide to use the pills at a later time, Aid Access will still provide instructions and follow-up support.

Regarding their shelf life:

Upon receiving your medication by mail, it is advisable to store them at room temperature in their original, unopened packaging.

Mifepristone remains effective for approximately 5 years, while misoprostol tablets maintain their efficacy for around 2 years.

Experts recommend verifying the expiration date before consumption. It is not recommended to consume expired mifepristone or misoprostol, as their effectiveness might be compromised.

What is self-managed abortion?

Self-managed abortion involves obtaining and administering abortion pills independently. It's crucial to research guidelines, legalities, and potential risks before considering this approach.

How much do abortion pills cost?

Costs vary widely, ranging from $40 to $600 or more. Factors include the method, location, and potential insurance/Medicaid coverage or discounts.

Are there any risks associated with finding abortion pills online?

Online sources may vary in legitimacy and quality. It's vital to verify credibility, review regulations, and prioritize safety when choosing an online provider.

Is the Cost of Abortion Pills Covered by Insurance or Medicaid?

Certain insurance plans and specific Medicaid schemes may include coverage for abortion pills. However, it's important to note that not all providers accept insurance or Medicaid. Our comprehensive Guide offers insights into financial assistance options offered by different providers. To determine if your insurance or Medicaid can be used, the most effective approach is to directly communicate with the provider. Their assistance will facilitate a clear understanding of your options.

How can I ensure my privacy and confidentiality when obtaining abortion pills?

Healthcare providers and reputable online platforms prioritize confidentiality. Research and select sources with secure practices.

Are there age restrictions for obtaining abortion pills?

Age limits for accessing abortion pills may vary depending on location and provider policies. Be aware of legal requirements in your area.

What should I consider when choosing an abortion pill provider?

Prioritize safety, credibility, reviews, and adherence to medical and legal standards. Consult healthcare professionals for guidance.

Can I use my insurance or Medicaid to cover abortion pill costs?

Many services accept insurance or Medicaid, while some offer discounts. Inquire with providers about financial assistance options.

Can I still consult a healthcare provider even if I choose self-managed abortion?

Yes, healthcare providers can offer guidance, answer questions, and provide post-abortion care, even if you opt for self-managed abortion.

What resources are available for finding reputable abortion pill providers?

Research credible organizations, read reviews, consult reproductive health experts, and consider telemedicine services recommended by medical professionals.

How can I access reliable information about abortion pill options?

Reputable medical sources, healthcare providers, and organizations focusing on reproductive health provide accurate and detailed information about abortion pill options.

Understanding Online "Pharmacies" and Ordering Abortion Pills

What are Online "Pharmacies"?
Numerous online services market themselves as "pharmacies" selling abortion pills. These platforms often lack medical consultation requirements and prescriptions. They extend shipping services to addresses across all US states.

Are These Websites Legitimate?
Yes, many of these websites are legitimate, though they operate without regulation from the US government. They offer generic abortion pills that have not undergone US government inspection.

Plan C routinely assesses these websites by purchasing pills from them. The services listed in our Guide have all shipped pills to our home addresses. Our laboratory testing confirms the authenticity of the pills. However, please note that we do not manage these sites and cannot ensure their future reliability.

Here's How Online Pill Stores Operate:

Selection: Buyers choose the desired product, often labeled as an MTP Kit (medical termination of pregnancy). Our tests verified the presence of one mifepristone pill and four misoprostol pills. Some services provided only three misoprostol pills, which deviates from the medical standard. [NOTE: Individuals more than 9 weeks pregnant might purchase 4-8 extra misoprostol pills for potential use in completing the abortion.]

Address and Payment: Buyers fill in their address and payment details.

Shipping Options: Buyers opt for preferred shipping. During our tests, "express" shipping usually originated from the United States and arrived in 4-6 days. "Regular" shipping arrived from abroad and took several weeks.

Payment Note: Notably, these websites often email or call after receiving orders, requesting alternative forms of payment due to credit card issues. Buyers may be urged to use a PayPal account under a person's name or another business. Despite seeming unusual, these requests worked during our tests.

Delivery: The pills are typically dispatched via the US Postal Service and often do not necessitate a signature upon arrival.

Online pill stores might not adhere to stringent digital security measures. Many individuals use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) before accessing or ordering from these sites to safeguard personal information.

To learn more about potential legal ramifications linked to acquiring pills from online pill stores, refer to our FAQ. For further guidance, contact the free, confidential Repro Legal Helpline (online or at 844-868-2812) to discuss your specific situation.

NOTE: If issues arise with any of the online pill stores listed on our website, please directly contact them for assistance. We do not manage these sites and cannot facilitate refunds or address shipping problems.

What are abortion pills?

Abortion pills are medications used to terminate a pregnancy in its early stages. The most common combination of abortion pills includes mifepristone (RU-486) followed by misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone needed for the pregnancy to continue, and misoprostol helps to induce contractions and complete the abortion process.

Where can I access guidelines on using the pills?

Numerous organizations offer comprehensive information on the administration of abortion pills. Notably, HowToUseAbortionPill.org presents detailed guidelines for both mifepristone with misoprostol abortion and misoprostol-only abortion, available in 27 languages. This website also features a real-time chat function.

Additionally, the Miscarriage and Abortion Hotline provides instructions in both English and Spanish for pill consumption. You can also communicate with a clinician via text or voice for any inquiries.

For further assistance, the Reprocare Healthline boasts peer counselors and doulas who can expertly guide you through the entire process, from obtaining the pills to follow-up procedures.

How effective are abortion pills?

When taken according to the recommended instructions, abortion pills are generally effective in terminating pregnancies up to a certain gestational age (usually up to 10 weeks).

How do I obtain abortion pills?

Abortion pills are typically prescribed by a healthcare provider. You will need to have an initial consultation to confirm your pregnancy and discuss your options. In some places, you may also be able to obtain abortion pills from a specialized clinic or reproductive health center.

What should I anticipate after using abortion pills?

The website howtouseabortionpill.org offers valuable insights into post-pill expectations and guidance on managing side effects. A fact sheet, available in both English and Spanish, succinctly outlines what to anticipate and when to seek additional medical attention.

Common symptoms:

The abortion pills trigger bleeding and cramping, indicative of the pills' effectiveness in the abortion process. Many individuals may not experience any symptoms after taking the initial pill (mifepristone). Bleeding and cramping typically commence shortly following the consumption of the second set of pills (misoprostol).

Bleeding may exceed the heaviness of a regular period, while cramping can range from mild to intense, varying among individuals and depending on the pregnancy's gestational age.

Other prevalent side effects encompass nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, and fevers.

Severe symptoms necessitating immediate medical attention:

  • Bleeding saturating more than 2 maxi sanitary pads per hour for over 2 consecutive hours, OR
  • Fever exceeding 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 24 hours, OR
  • Fever surpassing 102.2 degrees Fahrenheit for any duration

The Miscarriage and Abortion Hotline is a complimentary service managed by licensed clinicians. They can provide medical insights concerning miscarriage and abortion.

Preparation guidelines:

In readiness for at-home administration of abortion pills, abortionfinder.org recommends assembling the subsequent supplies beforehand:

  • A heating pad
  • Comfortable attire, including soft undergarments
  • Highly absorbent maxi pads
  • A blanket for potential chills
  • Ice chips and/or popsicles for alleviating nausea or vomiting
  • Easily digestible foods like plain crackers, white rice, bananas, broth, and plain white bread
  • Distraction aids such as movies, television, magazines, coloring books, or video games
  • A friend or supportive individual, if necessary

Are abortion pills safe?

Abortion pills are considered safe when used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. However, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects. Common side effects include cramping, bleeding, nausea, and vomiting. Serious complications are rare but can include heavy bleeding, infection, or incomplete abortion.

How do I take abortion pills?

The specific instructions may vary, but generally, you will take mifepristone under medical supervision at a clinic, and then take misoprostol at home 24 to 48 hours later. Misoprostol is usually taken buccally (placed between the cheek and gum) or vaginally. Your healthcare provider will give you detailed instructions.

What can I expect after taking the pills?

After taking misoprostol, you can expect cramping and bleeding as the uterus empties. This can be similar to a heavy period. It's normal to experience discomfort, and your healthcare provider will provide guidance on managing pain and other symptoms.

What constitutes a "clinician-supported" abortion? And what does "self-managed" abortion entail?

In the United States, there are two primary approaches for obtaining abortion pills:

Clinician-Supported: This involves acquiring the pills following a consultation with a medical professional, such as a doctor or nurse practitioner. This consultation can occur at a physical clinic or through a telehealth service. In the case of telehealth, the pills are typically sent to you via mail after a medical evaluation. Subsequently, you administer the pills at home.

Self-Managed: This approach entails independently sourcing the pills without seeking guidance from a medical practitioner. After obtaining the pills, you proceed to use them at home.

Examples of Clinician-Supported Services include:

  • Abortion on Demand
  • Carafem
  • CHOIX
  • Just the Pill
  • Hey Jane
  • Forward Midwifery
  • Full Circle Healthcare
  • Metro Area Advance Practice
  • Clinicians
  • Pills by Post
  • Planned Parenthood
  • Your family doctor
  • Aid Access

Examples of Self-Managed Abortion include:

  • Purchasing and ingesting pills from an online pharmacy
  • Finding pills in a local convenience store (bodega)
  • Buying pills from a pharmacy in another country without a prescription

Both methods of accessing abortion pills are generally considered safe. However, it's worth noting that self-managed abortion may carry some legal implications. For a more comprehensive understanding of the legal considerations surrounding self-managed abortion, refer to our section titled "Can I get in trouble for using abortion pills?"

When should I seek medical help after taking the pills?

You should contact a healthcare provider if you experience severe or persistent pain, heavy bleeding (soaking more than two maxi pads per hour for two hours in a row), fever, or any other concerning symptoms.

Can I use abortion pills if I have certain medical conditions?

Some medical conditions may affect your eligibility for using abortion pills. It's important to disclose your complete medical history to your healthcare provider before obtaining and using abortion pills.

What if the abortion is not successful?

If the abortion is not successful (incomplete abortion), you may need to undergo a surgical procedure to complete the process. Your healthcare provider will guide you on the best course of action.

What follow-up care is needed?

Follow-up care is important to ensure that the abortion is complete and to address any potential complications. Your healthcare provider will schedule a follow-up appointment to assess your condition.

Remember, every individual's situation is unique. It's important to have an open and honest conversation with a healthcare provider to determine the best option for you. If you're considering using abortion pills, reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and support.

Can I have someone to talk to while undergoing my abortion?

Certainly. There are numerous complimentary services available to offer assistance and guidance throughout your abortion experience. The Miscarriage and Abortion Hotline extends free and confidential medical information and support via phone and text. Similarly, services like the Reprocare Healthline can provide emotional support and practical insights about the abortion process through phone or text communication, especially during a home abortion. Additionally, there are chatbots and applications (such as Euki and Safe Abortion App) designed to provide guidance.

For further details, please explore the support resources provided below.

What are abortion safety considerations and why are they important?

Abortion safety considerations encompass guidelines and precautions aimed at ensuring the health and well-being of individuals seeking abortions. They are vital to minimize risks and complications associated with the abortion procedure.

Are abortion procedures safe?

When performed by trained healthcare professionals in appropriate medical settings, abortion procedures are generally safe. However, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects.

How can I ensure a safe abortion experience?

To ensure a safe abortion experience:

  • Seek care from a licensed healthcare provider or a reputable medical facility.
  • Disclose your complete medical history and any allergies to your healthcare provider.
  • Follow all pre-procedure and post-procedure instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

What are the common risks and side effects of abortion?

Common risks and side effects of abortion can include:

  • Cramping and bleeding (similar to a heavy period).
  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and mild fever.
  • Infection (rare).
  • Heavy bleeding or hemorrhage (rare).
  • Incomplete abortion, requiring follow-up care.

How do I know if an abortion provider is reputable and safe?

Research the abortion provider or clinic:

  • Check if they are licensed and accredited.
  • Read reviews and seek recommendations from trusted sources.
  • Inquire about their experience and credentials.

Can I do a self-managed abortion safely?

Self-managed abortion (abortion without medical supervision) carries certain risks, including incomplete abortion, heavy bleeding, and infection. It's safer to seek medical care from a licensed provider for abortions.

What if I experience severe pain or bleeding after an abortion?

If you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding (soaking through more than two pads per hour), or any other concerning symptoms after an abortion, seek immediate medical attention.

How can I prevent complications after an abortion?

To prevent complications after an abortion:

  • Rest and follow post-procedure guidelines provided by your healthcare provider.
  • Avoid strenuous activities for a specified period.
  • Take prescribed medications as directed.
  • Attend follow-up appointments to ensure the abortion is complete and there are no complications.

Can I get in legal trouble for having an abortion?

Laws regarding abortion vary by location. It's important to be aware of your local laws and regulations. In many places, abortion is legal within certain gestational limits. Seek legal advice if you have concerns.

Where can I find reliable information and support for abortion safety?

Reputable sources for abortion information and support include:

  • Planned Parenthood or other established reproductive health organizations.
  • Healthcare providers specializing in reproductive health.
  • Hotlines offering confidential medical information and emotional support.

Remember, the safety and well-being of individuals seeking abortion are paramount. If you have questions or concerns, consult a healthcare professional or a trusted organization that specializes in reproductive health.

Are abortion pills medically secure? What are the potential health concerns?

The utilization of abortion pills is considered highly safe. These pills are most effective and secure for pregnancies within the first 13 weeks, equivalent to 91 days from the commencement of the last regular menstrual cycle. The World Health Organization furnishes guidelines for the safe self-management of abortion within the first 12 weeks from the initial day of the last menstrual period.

The occurrence of significant complications during an early abortion is exceedingly rare. Opting for an abortion is generally safer than proceeding with a pregnancy and childbirth.

A potential risk pertains to the possibility of abortion pills failing to achieve the intended outcome (ending the pregnancy). The efficacy of the pills diminishes with the progression of pregnancy. To verify the success of the abortion, a pregnancy test can be taken 3-4 weeks after consuming the pills:

  • If the test yields a positive result, seeking follow-up care is imperative.
  • Conducting a pregnancy test earlier than 3-4 weeks post-abortion may yield a false positive outcome due to the time it takes for pregnancy hormones to dissipate.
  • Many individuals notice the cessation of pregnancy symptoms soon after the abortion.

An additional risk involves pregnancies that occur outside the uterus, known as ectopic or tubal pregnancies. Ectopic pregnancies are exceedingly rare (approximately 2 out of every 100 pregnancies). Given that ectopic pregnancies can lead to severe health complications, it is crucial to:

  • Always perform a pregnancy test 3-4 weeks after taking the pills.
  • Immediately seek follow-up care at a medical facility if the pregnancy test is positive.
  • Seek medical attention if persistent signs or symptoms of pregnancy persist after the abortion. Notable indicators of an ectopic pregnancy include severe and escalating abdominal pain, particularly if localized to one side.

Abortion Pills and Legal Considerations: What You Should Know

Can I Face Legal Consequences for Using Abortion Pills?
The use of abortion pills for self-care should not result in legal penalties. However, historical cases reveal instances of arrests and prosecutions (61 known cases between 2000 and 2020) for self-managing abortions or aiding others. Changes in abortion laws may impact the future criminalization of such actions, potentially affecting individuals based on factors like race, gender identity, and location.

The Importance of Informed Decision-Making
Plan C advocates for access to comprehensive information to facilitate informed decisions, including understanding potential legal risks. The following information is derived from the experiences of those who have self-managed abortions, but it does not serve as endorsement or legal counsel.

Legal Support and Resources
For a clearer understanding of laws and potential legal risks, the Repro Legal Helpline offers confidential legal advice online or at 844-868-2812. Their services include support for individuals facing prosecution or threats due to self-managing abortion. The National Advocates for Pregnant Women (NAPW) also provides legal assistance to those navigating abortion-related issues.

Previous Cases of Legal Trouble
Several scenarios highlight past instances of legal concerns related to self-managed abortions:

Example 1: Urgent Care Reporting
In a few cases, individuals seeking urgent care for health concerns have been reported to the police by medical staff. Seeking care does not necessitate disclosing abortion pill use, as the symptoms closely resemble those of a miscarriage. Medical providers can treat patients effectively without full knowledge of their medical history.

Example 2: Tissue Disposal
Improper disposal of tissue resulting from self-managed abortions has led to legal trouble. While early abortion tissue can often be flushed down the toilet, later-stage abortions may involve more significant tissue, posing disposal challenges.

Example 3: Digital Communications
Digital communications, such as emails and texts, have been used as evidence against those who self-manage abortions without a prescription. Privacy measures like Incognito Mode, VPNs, encrypted email, and secure texting can help protect digital privacy.

Example 4: Friend Reporting
Some individuals have faced legal action due to reports from friends or acquaintances who learned of their self-managed abortion. Reports by acquaintances accounted for over a quarter of known criminalizations between 2000 and 2020.

Seeking Legal Assistance
Individuals should be able to make safe and dignified choices regarding abortion. Legal help is available for those who might encounter legal challenges due to self-managing their abortions:

  • Repro Legal Helpline: Provides free, confidential legal support online and at 844-868-2812. They defend those facing prosecution for self-managing abortions.
  • National Advocates for Pregnant Women (NAPW): Offers legal assistance for individuals facing legal issues related to pregnancy and abortion.

 

Important Reminders:

  • Between 2000 and 2020, at least 61 people faced arrests or prosecutions for self-managing abortions or aiding others. The potential impact of new abortion laws on future criminalization remains uncertain.
  • Disclosure of self-managed abortion pill use is not mandatory, and medical providers cannot determine if abortion pills were taken based on symptoms.
  • Various measures, such as VPNs and digital privacy tools, can safeguard online privacy.
  • Legal assistance is accessible for those requiring support.

 

Remember, legal situations may differ, and seeking guidance from reliable sources and legal experts is advisable for specific concerns.

How to Avoid False Information and Abortion Scams

In today's online landscape, encountering misinformation is a common occurrence. Misinformation refers to false, inaccurate, or misleading guidance that aims to confuse individuals.

To protect yourself from false information and abortion scams, it's important to be aware of two common tactics used to deceive those seeking abortion information:

Abortion Pill "Reversal":
Claims of abortion reversal are untrue – it is not possible to "reverse" an abortion. Some individuals propagate the notion that taking progesterone after the first abortion pill can halt the process and continue the pregnancy. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of progesterone in reversing an abortion.

To learn more about this topic, you can refer to the resource provided by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Fake Abortion Clinics:
Fake abortion clinics aim to mislead individuals seeking abortion information. Often masquerading as "pregnancy centers" or "crisis pregnancy centers," these deceptive facilities employ similar language and techniques as legitimate abortion clinics and resources. They lure individuals into believing they are scheduling an abortion appointment, which ultimately delays access to proper care.

To verify the legitimacy of a clinic, you can use the online Clinic Checker tool.

Remaining vigilant and verifying the credibility of sources and information is crucial when seeking accurate and reliable abortion-related guidance.

For Medical Questions

If you have questions or need advice, Get answers to common questions about how abortion pills work and how to access them.

The M+A Hotline
(M+A does not sell abortion pills)
‍Call or text: 833-246-2632

For Medical Questions

Connect with a clinician through the M+A (Miscarriage + Abortion) Hotline, a free and confidential service.

The M+A Hotline
(M+A does not sell abortion pills)
‍Call or text: 833-246-2632

For Legal Questions

Connect with a lawyer through the Repro Legal Helpline for free and confidential legal information.

Repro Legal Helpline
Call: 844-868-2812

For Logistical and Emotional Support

Connect with a peer counselor or doula through Reprocare for free and confidential help understanding how to get pills and how to use them.

Reprocare Healthline
Call or text: 833-226-7821