What’s the Difference Between the Abortion Pill and Plan B?

If you are trying to prevent or terminate an unplanned pregnancy, but aren’t sure which medication is the right one to take, read this article to understand the difference between the “morning after” pill and the abortion pill.  What’s the Difference Between the Abortion Pill and Plan B?

How the Abortion Pill Works

The abortion pill is also called a medication abortion and is FDA-approved up until 10 weeks gestation. It can only be taken after a established pregnancy occurs in which the embryo has implanted itself in the uterine wall

A medication abortion is made up of a series of two different drugs: Mifepristone and Misoprostol. Mifepristone is an anti-progestin, which blocks the pregnancy from receiving a hormone that is vital to its development.

Once the pregnancy has been terminated, the second pill, Misoprostol, forces the uterus to contract and expel any products of conception. Primary side effects of this procedure are cramping and vaginal bleeding. 

How Plan B Works

While the abortion pill must be taken after conception, Plan B must be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. It works to delay or prevent fertilization so pregnancy doesn’t occur. 

Plan B is not a recommended routine contraceptive, nor does it guarantee you will not become pregnant. It also does not protect you from an STI.

What Are My Options?

If you think you are already pregnant, the first step is to confirm your pregnancy. You can schedule a no-cost lab-quality pregnancy test at Palm Beach Women’s Clinic.

After reading the results with one of our trained staff, we can determine if you qualify for an ultrasound to determine the age of the pregnancy and eliminate health risks, such as an ectopic pregnancy. 

We can then walk you through your options and available resources and make sure that you have support as you navigate a pregnancy decision (if applicable). We are here to support and assist you in any way that we can! Schedule your appointment today.