An unexpected pregnancy can leave you feeling like you need to make a decision quickly. If you’ve searched online, you’ve probably seen that abortion drugs can now be ordered by mail in many states.
While that may seem like the fastest solution, it’s important not to mistake speed for preparedness.
Before ordering abortion drugs online, take a step back and make sure you have the information you need to protect your health and make an informed decision. Here are three important things to know first.
1. Get an Ultrasound Before Seeking Abortion Drugs
Before seeking out abortion drugs, it’s important to get an ultrasound.
A pregnancy test can tell you that you’re pregnant, but it cannot provide several important medical details that an ultrasound can.
An ultrasound can determine:
- How far along you are. This information is important because abortion drugs are FDA-approved* for use only through 10 weeks of gestation. Taking these drugs later in pregnancy increases the risk of experiencing potentially severe complications.
- Where the pregnancy is located. An ultrasound can identify whether the pregnancy is inside the uterus or whether it is an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube. It is a medical emergency that cannot be treated with abortion drugs and requires immediate medical care.
- Whether the pregnancy appears to be viable. In some cases, a woman may have already experienced a miscarriage without realizing it. Because pregnancy hormones can remain in your body for a period of time, you may still receive a positive pregnancy test. An ultrasound can help determine whether the pregnancy is continuing to develop and what medical care, if any, is needed.
Skipping an ultrasound means you would be making a decision without important information about your health and your pregnancy.
2. Learn About All of Your Pregnancy Options
When you’re feeling unsure, it’s easy to focus on the option that seems most immediate. But before ordering abortion drugs, give yourself time to learn about all of your pregnancy options.
In addition to abortion, you may also want to learn more about parenting and adoption. Understanding what each option involves, including the physical, emotional, and practical considerations, can help you make a decision that reflects your own goals and values.
Even if you believe you already know what you want to do, gathering accurate information can give you greater confidence in your decision.
3. Talk to Someone You Trust
Facing an unexpected pregnancy can feel isolating, but you don’t have to make this decision alone.
Consider talking with someone you trust. For example, a close friend, family member, mentor, pastor, or another supportive person who will listen without pressuring you toward a particular decision.
It’s also important to ask yourself whether you’re feeling rushed. Are you making this decision because it’s what you want, or because someone else is encouraging, or even pressuring, you to move forward?
Your pregnancy decision should be your own. Taking time to think through your options and talk with someone you trust can help ensure you’re making a choice based on accurate information rather than fear or outside pressure.
We’re Here to Help
If you’re considering a mail-order abortion, Cleburne Pregnancy Center is here to help you make an informed decision.
We offer free, confidential pregnancy services, including pregnancy testing and free ultrasounds for qualifying patients, so you can learn how far along you are, whether your pregnancy is located in the uterus, and whether it appears to be developing. Our caring team is also here to answer your questions, explain your pregnancy options, and provide a safe, judgment-free place to talk through your situation.
Contact Cleburne Pregnancy Center today to schedule your confidential appointment. We’re here for you.
Cleburne Pregnancy Center does not provide or refer for abortions.
*Abortion is currently illegal in Texas except in cases of life endangerment, but women cannot be held criminally or civilly liable for seeking one.