Mail-order abortion is legal in the state of Illinois. However, there are a few facts to be aware of if you’re considering this option for an unplanned pregnancy.
Read this article to learn about how the abortion pill works and important health screenings that are not required but can be crucial to protecting your health.
How the Abortion Pill Works
A medication abortion consists of two different drugs. The first pill works to block the pregnancy from receiving the essential hormone, progesterone. If the pregnancy does not receive progesterone, it will stop developing.
After the pregnancy has been stopped, the next step is to take the next drug 24-48 hours later. This forces the uterus to contract to empty the fetus and pregnancy remnants from your womb.
Ordering a Mail-Order Abortion Skips Important Health Screenings
If you use a telehealth appointment to get your abortion pill prescription, this skips the important step of an ultrasound. An ultrasound can confirm the gestational age and viability of the pregnancy, as well as whether or not the pregnancy is ectopic. These are all criteria that should be considered before determining whether or not you are eligible for an abortion.
The Abortion Pill Does Not Protect You from STIs
Getting tested for STIs is also important before you schedule an abortion. If you have an STI, even if it’s asymptomatic, having an abortion can cause health complications.
Having an abortion with an untreated STI can increase your risk of pelvic infection. Having an untreated STI can also disqualify you from getting an abortion, so it’s a best practice to get tested before the procedure.
Next Steps
We offer no-cost pregnancy services at Waterleaf Women’s Center, such as pregnancy tests, STI testing, and limited ultrasounds. We are here to provide as much information as possible so you can feel informed and empowered to make your decision.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
