Abortion Pill
How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
The abortion pill (also known as medication abortion) typically involves two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone is taken first. It blocks progesterone, a hormone needed for a pregnancy to continue. Without the effects of progesterone, the pregnancy cannot continue. Misoprostol is then taken 24–48 hours later and causes the uterus to contract and empty.1
If a woman has taken mifepristone and changes her mind about continuing with the abortion, she should seek medical guidance promptly. Progesterone treatment, commonly referred to as Abortion Pill Reversal, is offered by some medical providers in an effort to counter the effects of mifepristone. For more information, contact the Abortion Pill Reversal hotline immediately at 877-558-0333.
How Late Can You Take the Abortion Pill?
The FDA-approved mifepristone and misoprostol regimen is indicated for an intrauterine pregnancy through 10 weeks gestation (70 days or less since the first day of your last menstrual period).1
The FDA-approved regimen is not indicated beyond 10 weeks gestation. Complications can include prolonged heavy bleeding, incomplete abortion, and the need for medical or surgical intervention.1
Is Abortion Legal in South Carolina?
Currently, South Carolina law generally prohibits abortion once a fetal heartbeat has been detected.2 Exceptions include certain medical emergencies and fatal fetal anomalies. In cases of rape or incest, an abortion may be performed if the probable gestational age is no more than 12 weeks.2
Click here to learn more about why you should get an ultrasound before an abortion.
Can I Get Abortion Pills Over the Counter?
No. Mifepristone is not available over the counter. It must be prescribed by a healthcare provider who is certified under the Mifepristone REMS Program. Mifepristone may be dispensed by a certified pharmacy or by or under the supervision of a certified prescriber.1
Can I Order the Abortion Pill Online?
Mifepristone can be prescribed by a certified healthcare provider and dispensed and shipped by a certified pharmacy. However, the FDA does not recommend purchasing mifepristone online outside of the Mifepristone REMS Program.3
Medications purchased from unregulated or foreign online sources may not be FDA-approved, and the FDA cannot ensure their safety, effectiveness, or quality.3
Abortion Pill Information in Columbia, South Carolina
A positive pregnancy test can bring a lot of questions and emotions. You don’t have to make a pregnancy decision alone. Get the care and support you deserve at Daybreak LifeCare Center. We offer free pregnancy services and resources to help you make an informed and empowered decision about your unexpected pregnancy:
- Free pregnancy tests
- Free ultrasounds
- A safe, non-judgmental place to explore your pregnancy options and share what’s on your mind
Call us at 803-771-6634 or schedule your appointment online today. All services are confidential and at no cost!
Please be aware that Daybreak LifeCare Center does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources
- Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation - South Carolina Code of Laws, Title 44, Chapter 41, Sections 44-41-630–660. South Carolina Legislature.
https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t44c041.php - Information about Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/information-about-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation