10 Questions to Ask Before Taking the Abortion Pill 

The abortion pill has revolutionized the world of abortion. Now that many states allow abortions via telemedicine with the pill, it’s possible to have an abortion fully on your own terms: in your own home, surrounded by the people you want, and without ever having to walk through a crowd of protesters. Abortion remains one of the safest medical procedures you can undergo, and the abortion pill is no exception. Complication rates are slightly higher with the abortion pill, though, so it’s important to ask lots of questions to be sure this is the right choice for you.

Quality abortion clinics want to ensure their patients are fully informed about their choices–not rushed into a decision which they’re not totally prepared for. So don’t feel like you’re asking too many questions or being a pain.

Here are 10 questions to ask before taking the abortion pill (medication abortion).

• Are there any legal requirements I must meet first? Some states require a 24 hour waiting period or parental consent.
• What is the risk to me, at this stage of gestation, of choosing the abortion pill versus a surgical abortion?
• Are there any contraindications to taking this pill? Is it safe to use with my other medications?
• When should I call the doctor or go to the emergency room? What are the most common complications to look for?
• What should I expect in the 24 hours after taking the pill?
• Do I need to come in for a follow-up visit? If so, when?
• Are there signs of an incomplete abortion I should look for?
• How far along am I, and is the abortion pill allowed at this stage of pregnancy?
• If I have complications, who should I call? Does your clinic have a 24 hour emergency line? Who staffs the line?
• Can I follow up with my own doctor, or do I need to come into the clinic?

Read more information on questions to ask before taking the abortion pill on the National Abortion Federation (NAF) site.