How to Prepare for an Abortion Pill

If you’re pregnant and considering abortion, you may be looking into the abortion pill as one possible option. Before moving forward with a medication abortion, there are a few important things to confirm so you have accurate information and can make a well-informed decision.

1. Confirm That You Are Pregnant

It’s important to confirm pregnancy before taking any medication. Acting quickly during a stressful moment can make it easy to skip this step.

A lab-grade pregnancy test is the first step. An ultrasound may also be recommended to provide additional information about the pregnancy.

2. Know the Status and Stage of the Pregnancy

Not every pregnancy continues. A significant number end naturally in miscarriage, often before someone realizes what’s happening.

An ultrasound can:

Confirm whether the pregnancy is progressing
Confirm the location of the pregnancy (in the uterus or ectopic (outside the uterus))
Determine how far along the pregnancy is

The abortion pill is typically limited to early pregnancy, so knowing gestational age is essential before considering this option.

3. Make Sure This Is Your Decision

Pregnancy decisions can come with a lot of outside voices—partners, family members, or friends may have strong opinions about what you should do.

You have the legal right to make your own pregnancy decision. No one can force, threaten, or pressure you into having an abortion.

If you’re feeling rushed, pressured, or unsure whether this decision truly feels like your own, it can help to talk with someone outside your situation in a confidential, judgment-free space.

4. Understand the Risks

Abortion—whether medical or procedural—comes with physical and emotional considerations.

Medical abortion can involve cramping, bleeding, and the possibility of incomplete abortion that may require additional medical care. Pre-existing infections, such as untreated STIs, can increase the risk of complications if not identified and treated beforehand.

It’s also important to recognize that abortion is irreversible. Some people feel confident afterward, while others experience emotional or spiritual distress. Taking time to understand the process and how you feel about it matters.

Abortion Information & Support

If you have questions about the abortion pill or want to better understand your options, High Desert Women’s Center offers a safe, confidential place to talk.

Free services include:

You don’t need to have everything figured out before reaching out.