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The Abortion Pill Dilemma: Am I Eligible? | FREE Consultations in Sioux City & Le Mars, Iowa

Updated: Jul 2

For many women seeking pregnancy termination options, the abortion pill may seem like the right choice. However, there are facts to know before you make a final decision. There are some medical or pregnancy issues that may make you ineligible and understanding these limitations is crucial for making informed decisions about your reproductive health.


We are a non-profit organization serving women facing unplanned pregnancies that does not refer for or perform abortion services. However, we understand the unique challenges facing pregnant women and are here to inform and empower you with answers and options. Whether you need community referrals or access to additional resources, we are committed to walking with you on your journey.

AM I ELIGIBLE? Learn what the medical experts say.

  • Duration of Pregnancy. The abortion pill is currently FDA-approved for pregnancies up to 70 days (10 weeks) after the last menstrual period. Women beyond this time frame are ineligible for the medication, according to the FDA. *If you're in Iowa, the Iowa Heartbeat bill, which prohibits abortion once a fetal heartbeat is noted on ultrasound, will take effect July 19, 2024.

  • Ectopic Pregnancy. Women with an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy located outside the uterus) are not eligible for the abortion pill. Ectopic pregnancies require immediate medical attention and intervention. The only way to diagnose an intrauterine pregnancy is through an ultrasound. 

  • Access to Emergency Medical Care. Due to the nature of the abortion pill regimen, women must have easy access to emergency medical assistance in the two weeks following medication intake. Limited access to medical care may deem some individuals ineligible due to the potential risks and side effects.

  • Intrauterine Device (IUD). The presence of an intrauterine device (IUD) necessitates its removal before initiating the abortion pill regimen. Failure to remove the IUD may result in complications and render the treatment ineffective.

  • Bleeding or Blood-Clotting Disorders. Women with bleeding or blood-clotting disorders, such as hemophilia, may experience complications during the abortion pill process. These conditions warrant careful evaluation and medical supervision.

  • Allergic Reactions. The abortion pill should not be used by women who have an allergy to prostaglandins or any components of the abortion pill. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe and require immediate medical attention.

  • Use of Blood Thinner. Individuals taking blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven) may face increased bleeding risks when combined with the abortion pill. Medical consultation is necessary to assess the compatibility of medications.

  • Long-Term Steroid Use. Prolonged use of steroid medication may affect the body's response to the abortion pill regimen. Women on long-term steroid therapy should discuss their eligibility for the medicines with healthcare providers.

  • Adrenal Gland Disorders. Individuals with chronic adrenal failure or disorders affecting the adrenal glands may face increased risks when taking the abortion pill. It is essential to assess adrenal health before proceeding with the medication.

  • Porphyria. Porphyria, a genetic enzyme disorder impacting the skin or nervous system, poses risks during medication intake. Women with porphyria may be ineligible for the abortion pill due to potential adverse effects.


BE INFORMED AND EMPOWERED.

Understanding the factors that may render some women ineligible for the abortion pill is essential for navigating reproductive health. 


KNOW YOUR NEXT STEP.

Come to Her Health Women’s Center to learn more about your pregnancy. You don't have to face this alone. Our center offers the support and resources to make informed decisions about your pregnancy and health. 


Take the first step by making an appointment with our licensed medical staff today!


Additional Sources:

https://www.drugs.com/misoprostol.html. (2022, December 15). Misoprostol: Uses, dosage, side effects & warnings. Drugs.com. https://www.drugs.com/misoprostol.html

Mayo Clinic Staff. (2022c, July 29). Medical abortion. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/medical-abortion/about/pac-20394687

Mifepristone side effects: Common, severe, long term. Drugs.com. (2024, February 25). https://www.drugs.com/sfx/mifepristone-side-effects.html

professional, C. C. medical. (2024b, January 16). What is a medical abortion?. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21899-medical-abortion

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