The Abortion Pill
How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
The abortion pill (also known as medication abortion) actually consists of two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone is taken first. It cuts the supply of the hormone progesterone to the fetus, which is needed to maintain the pregnancy. Without a steady supply of progesterone, the fetus stops growing and eventually dies. Misoprostol is taken up to 48 hours later. This medication causes the uterus to cramp and expel the pregnancy.
How Late Can You Take the Abortion Pill?
The abortion pill is only FDA-approved for up to 10 weeks from your last menstrual period[1]. If you take the abortion pill later on in your pregnancy, the risk of serious complications increases. You may need emergency surgery to stop heavy bleeding or complete the procedure if it fails or is incomplete.
Is Abortion Legal in Tennessee?
Currently, abortion is illegal in Tennessee. However, exceptions can be made to save the life of the mother. Additionally, women who receive abortions will not be prosecuted under Tennessee law[2].
If you’re considering traveling out of state for an abortion, we strongly recommend receiving an ultrasound beforehand.
Can I Order the Abortion Pill Online?
The FDA advises against ordering the abortion pill online. Many online abortion pill providers are located overseas, so the pills they provide may not meet FDA standards[3]. These pills could be counterfeit, expired, or even tampered with. It’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid ordering the abortion pill online.
Abortion Pill Information in Cookeville, TN
When your pregnancy test comes back positive, it can be easy to panic. Don’t let fear make the final decision for you. Get the care and support you deserve at Cookeville Pregnancy Clinic. We offer free pregnancy resources, so you can make an informed decision for your unplanned pregnancy:
- Free pregnancy tests
- Free ultrasounds
- STI testing and treatment
- A safe, non-judgemental place to explore your pregnancy options and share what’s on your mind
Give us a call at (931) 593-5112 or schedule your free appointment today. All services are confidential and free of charge.
Please be aware that Cookeville Pregnancy Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services.
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Sources
- FDA. (2023, September 1). Questions and Answers on Mifeprex. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifeprex
- Human Life Protection Act. Tennessee General Assembly. (2022, June). Retrieved from https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1029&GA=111
- Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (2023, March 23). Mifeprex (Mifepristone). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifeprex-mifepristone-information