Your Guide to the Medication Abortion
This guide is for anyone considering abortion pills, whether you’re early in pregnancy, later on, or living in a state with abortion restrictions. It’s designed to help you understand your options, feel more prepared, and know where to go for support.
Understanding Your Options
Comparing the Different Ways to Get Abortion Pills in Restricted States
There are a few different ways to get abortion pills in restricted states, including telehealth providers, community networks, and online sources.
This guide breaks down each option, how they work, and what to consider so you can decide what feels right for you.
What is telehealth abortion?
Telehealth abortion is when a licensed provider prescribes abortion pills after an online consultation and mails them to you or arranges pickup.
People in every state use telehealth to get abortion pills. This article explains how it works, who it’s for, and what to expect.
What is an abortion shield provider?
An abortion shield provider is a clinician protected by laws in their state that allow them to prescribe abortion pills to people in other states.
This article explains how shield laws work, where they apply, and how they help people in restricted states access care.
What do abortion pills cost online?
Abortion pills by mail typically cost around $150, but prices can vary depending on the provider and support included.
This guide walks through what affects cost, how pricing differs across options, and ways to get financial help.
Taking Abortion Pills
Abortion with Pills Before 6 Weeks
You can safely use abortion pills very early in pregnancy, including before 6 weeks.
This guide explains what to expect when taking abortion pills early, including how your body might respond and how to know they worked.
Abortion with Pills After 12 Weeks
Abortion with pills after 12 weeks is still a safe and effective option, but the process can take longer and involve stronger symptoms.
This guide explains what changes later in pregnancy, including timing, what to expect physically, and how to get support so you know what to expect.
What if my provider gave me a different regimen for the medication abortion?
It’s normal for abortion pill instructions to vary depending on your provider, situation, or the medications available.
This article explains why regimens can look different and when those differences are still safe and effective.
How to have an abortion when mife isn’t available
You can still have a safe and effective abortion using only misoprostol (Cytotec).
This guide walks through how misoprostol-only abortion works, including step-by-step instructions, side effects, and how effective it is.
Looking for step-by-step instructions?
For detailed, medically reviewed guidance on how to take abortion pills, visit the M+A Hotline.
While You’re Taking the Pills
What if I can’t swallow mifepristone? Can I crush it?
If you can’t swallow mifepristone, you may still be able to take it by crushing or splitting the pill.
This guide explains how to take it correctly, what options you have, and what to do if you throw up after taking it.
What if I throw up after taking abortion pills?
If you throw up after taking abortion pills, whether you need more medication depends on when it happens.
This article walks through what to do, how to tell if the pills were absorbed, and when to get more support.
Smoking Weed + Taking Abortion Pills
Cannabis is safe to use during a medication abortion and may help with symptoms like pain and nausea.
This guide explains what to know about using cannabis during an abortion, including how it might affect how you feel and what to consider.
How to Know It Worked + What’s Next
How do I know if the abortion pills worked?
You can usually tell the abortion pills worked based on symptoms like bleeding, cramping, and a decrease in pregnancy symptoms.
This guide explains the signs of a successful abortion, how long it can take, and when to follow up or take a test.
Abortion Aftercare: What is it and Where to Go in Restricted States
You can still get follow-up care after an abortion, even in states with restrictions.
This article explains what abortion aftercare includes, where to go for care, and how to find safe, supportive options near you.
Medical Questions to Consider
Do you need RhoGAM after an abortion or miscarriage?
Some people may need a RhoGAM shot after an abortion or miscarriage, depending on their blood type and how far along the pregnancy is.
This guide explains who may need RhoGAM, why it matters, and how to find out if it applies to you.
Can I breastfeed during or after an abortion or miscarriage?
You can continue breastfeeding during and after an abortion — abortion medications do not affect breastfeeding.
This article explains why it’s safe, what to know about pain medications (and when pumping and dumping may be recommended), possible changes in milk supply, and other helpful things to keep in mind.
What If I Go to an ER?
You can go to the ER if you need care after an abortion or miscarriage, and they can treat your symptoms without needing to know you took abortion pills.
This guide explains what to expect, what to say, and how to navigate emergency care safely and confidently.
Getting Back to Normal Activities
Can I use a tampon after an abortion? Or take a bath? When can I work out again?
You can return to normal activities like using tampons, bathing, and working out as soon as you feel ready after an abortion.
This guide explains when it’s safe to resume daily activities, what to expect from your body, and how to listen to your symptoms as you recover.
How long after an abortion can you have sex?
You can have sex after an abortion whenever you feel ready, but it’s important to consider comfort and pregnancy risk.
This article explains when it’s safe to have sex, how quickly fertility can return, and how to start birth control right away if you want to avoid pregnancy.
Looking for abortion pills or pills by mail?
Start with I Need An A or Plan C for vetted options.
Worried about legal risks?
Repro Legal Helpline offers free, confidential legal support—no matter your age.
Need to talk to a medical professional?
M+A Hotline has clinicians available by phone or text during a medication abortion.
Want support while taking abortion pills?
Connect with trained peer counselors at Reprocare or Aya Contigo.
Want to protect your privacy?
Review our guide on keeping your information and conversations private. You can also check out resources from Digital Defense Fund for additional digital security support.