Considering the Abortion Pill in Elgin, IL?

An unplanned pregnancy can be overwhelming. It’s crucial to make an informed decision about your options, especially when considering the abortion pill. Keep reading to learn how the abortion pill works, its risks, and your legal options to ensure you make the right choice for your health and future.

What is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill (medication abortion) is a two-drug regimen used to end a pregnancy in its early stages. It consists of two medications:

• Mifepristone: The first pill taken, which blocks the hormone progesterone, necessary to sustain the pregnancy. Without progesterone, the pregnancy cannot continue, and the embryo stops growing.
• Misoprostol: The second pill, taken 24-48 hours after mifepristone, causes contractions to expel the pregnancy tissue.

By understanding how the abortion pill works, you can make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you.

How Late Can You Take the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill is FDA-approved for use up to 10 weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period.[1] Taking the medication beyond this timeframe increases the risk of complications, and may require further medical intervention, including emergency surgery to address excessive bleeding or incomplete abortion.[2]

Is Abortion Legal in IL?

Currently, abortion is legal in Illinois until fetal viability, around 24-26 weeks of pregnancy.[3]

Although Illinois law doesn’t require it, we recommend receiving an ultrasound before an abortion.

ICU Mobile offers free mobile ultrasounds in our mobile medical units to help determine how far along you are in your pregnancy. This ensures you have the correct information to make an empowered decision.

Can I Get Abortion Pills Over the Counter?

While the FDA has approved certain pharmacies to dispense the abortion pill with a prescription, you cannot obtain it over the counter. The process still requires a medical consultation and prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to ensure your safety.[4]

Can I Order the Abortion Pill Online?

Ordering the abortion pill online from unregulated sources is risky. The FDA warns against purchasing abortion pills from overseas or unverified online platforms, as these pills may be expired, counterfeit, or contaminated.[5] Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider to ensure you receive FDA-approved medications.

What are the Side Effects of the Abortion Pill?

Like any medical procedure, the abortion pill can have side effects, ranging from mild to severe: Common side effects[6]:

• Spotting or bleeding that can last up to a month
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea and digestive pain
• Chills
• Fever
• Abdominal cramping (caused by the misoprostol)

Severe side effects (seek medical attention immediately):

• Allergic reaction (anaphylactic shock)[7]
• Hemorrhaging (excessive bleeding)[8]
• Incomplete abortion (remaining pregnancy tissue)[9]
• Infection (fever lasting more than 24 hours)[10]

Considering the Abortion Pill? Get a Mobile Ultrasound First.

At ICU Mobile, we understand that facing an unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming. We’re here to provide you with the facts about the abortion pill and guide you through every step of the process. We provide mobile ultrasounds in our mobile medical units. Our services are confidential, free of charge, and designed to help you make the best decision for your health and future. Give us a call at (224) 558-2262 or schedule your appointment online today.