What is Plan C? Plan C is a term that refers to the abortion pill — and sometimes a person might be able to access this medication without talking with a doctor first. This could be dangerous to your health. Let’s explore what Plan C, or the abortion pill, is all about.
Outline:
- What is Plan C, and why might someone consider it?
- How does the abortion pill work?
- What are some side effects of the abortion pill?
- Are there risks if someone tries a DIY abortion without medical guidance?
- Why is it important to consult a medical professional before using the abortion pill?
- Know the facts so you can make safer choices
- FAQs About Types of Medication Abortion & Access to Abortion
What is the medical abortion Plan C, and why might someone consider it?
Plan C, also known as the abortion pill, is a way to end a pregnancy. In recent years, the abortion pill has become more available to women through online pharmacies or after a telehealth consultation — without having been seen by a doctor to confirm the pregnancy.
There are different reasons that people might consider getting the abortion pill online.
- Maybe they don’t want others to know about the pregnancy.
- Maybe they’re worried about the cost of an appointment.
- Or maybe it just seems like the easiest solution to their situation.
But are there risks to taking this powerful medicine without a doctor’s visit?
If you’re wondering, “What is Plan C,” here’s more about how it works, its side effects, and risks that are important to know about.
How does the medication abortion pill work?
The abortion pill is two medicines called mifepristone and misoprostol. When used together, they can end a pregnancy up to 10 weeks along. Mifepristone is taken at a medical facility or can be sent in the mail, and misoprostol is taken at home later. Mifepristone stops the progesterone. Without this, the uterus can no longer support the pregnancy. Misoprostol causes contractions to empty the uterus. But does it come with risks?
Mayo Clinic, Mifepristone (Oral Route)
What are some side effects of the abortion pill?
Using the abortion pill can lead to side effects. We’ve answered, “What is Plan C?” but what are the side effects? Here are some things to know about them:
Bleeding:
After taking the abortion pill, you can expect to have bleeding. This bleeding is usually heavier than a regular period and can last for several days or even weeks.
Cramping:
You may experience strong cramps in your lower abdomen, similar to menstrual cramps.
Nausea and Vomiting:
Some people may feel nauseous or even vomit after taking the abortion pill.
Diarrhea:
Diarrhea can also occur as a side effect.
Feeling Tired:
You might feel tired or fatigued during and after the process.
Emotional Reactions:
What is Plan C when it comes to your emotions? People might experience a wide range of emotions during and after an abortion. Some people may feel sadness, relief, or a mix of emotions. Having emotional support from friends, family, or a counselor can be helpful. Thrive+ has confidential and compassionate abortion after care available.
Risk of Infection and Other Rare Complications:
There is a risk of infection and other complications that would require you to seek immediate medical attention. That’s why it’s essential to follow all the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and to have a follow-up appointment to ensure everything is progressing as it should.
Remember, the side effects can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience all of them.
Mayo Clinic, Mifepristone (Oral Route), Side Effects
Are there risks if someone tries a DIY abortion without medical guidance?
Yes, there are risks involved in attempting a DIY abortion without proper medical supervision. It’s crucial to understand these risks:
Incomplete Abortion
One of the significant risks is having an incomplete abortion. This means that not all of the pregnancy tissue comes out of the uterus. If this happens,this can lead to infection or other complications. It may require additional medical procedures to complete the abortion safely.
Ectopic Pregnancy
What is Plan C, and can it be used in ectopic pregnancy? The abortion pill cannot treat ectopic pregnancies, which occur when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. Ectopic pregnancies are life-threatening. If someone tries the abortion pill without knowing they have an ectopic pregnancy, it could be extremely dangerous. Seeking a medical consult first, with an ultrasound, is the only way to rule out an ectopic pregnancy.
Heavy Bleeding
The abortion pill can cause heavy bleeding, which can be distressing and, in some cases, may lead to anemia, a condition where the body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells to function properly.
Emotional Impact
DIY abortions can be emotionally challenging, and going through the process alone or without proper support can be distressing.
Legal Consequences
In some places, attempting a DIY abortion might have legal consequences. Be aware of the laws in your area and find safe and legal options for your health.
Lack of Medical Monitoring
When using the abortion pill under medical supervision, healthcare providers can monitor your health and provide guidance throughout the process. Without this oversight, one’s health can be put at risk.
Mayo Clinic, Mifepristone (Oral Route)
FDA, Information about Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation
Attempting a DIY abortion carries significant risks to both physical and emotional health. If you’re asking, “What is Plan C?” and want more info on the risks, come chat with us at Thrive+.
Why is it important to consult a medical professional before using the abortion pill?
A medical professional can help you know how long you’ve been pregnant
Consulting a doctor or healthcare provider is VERY important because a doctor can help determine whether it’s safe for you to take the abortion pill at this stage in the pregnancy.
The FDA says that the abortion pill should only be used until the 10th week of pregnancy. Sometimes you might not know how long you’ve been pregnant, or you may have irregular periods.
Having an ultrasound can give you an accurate idea about how long you’ve been pregnant, so you can make safer decisions about your future.
A medical professional can check for ectopic pregnancy
Like we mentioned earlier, ectopic pregnancies are life-threatening — and most people don’t know that they have an ectopic pregnancy until they visit their doctor and have an ultrasound.
If you’re wondering “What is Plan C?”, it’s CRUCIAL to rule out an ectopic pregnancy before taking the abortion pill.
FDA, Information about Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation
Cleveland Clinic, Ectopic Pregnancy
Know the facts so you can make safer choices
There are many reasons why a person might consider taking the abortion pill, and situations where they need to seek guidance from a medical professional. Know your options to keep yourself safe.
- Thrive+ offers no-cost pre-abortion screenings — so you don’t have to worry about the price of a doctor’s visit.
- Your visit to Thrive is confidential. We take your privacy seriously.
- Making an appointment is quick and simple. We often have walk-ins available — and even have Telehealth options.
So “What is Plan C?” Well, it’s all about the abortion pill — but there are important things to know before you decide to get it online or when to see a medical professional.
Know the facts. Protect yourself. You are the best person to make decisions about your future, and we want to make sure you have the information you need. Thrive+ is here to support you with accurate information so you can make empowered decisions.
FAQs About Types of Medication Abortion & Access to Abortion
What is a plan b abortion pill and plan c pills to end a pregnancy?
According to the Mayo Clinic, “The morning-after pill (Plan B) is a type of emergency birth control (contraception). Emergency contraception is used to prevent pregnancy for women who’ve had unprotected sex or whose birth control method has failed.” Plan C is a medication based abortion that comes in 2 parts. The first pill stops the pregnancy from growing. The second will empty the uterus with strong contractions.
Talk with our team at Thrive before starting this so you can be equipped to make a good decision.
What should I know about getting Abortion Care via Telehealth to have a Self Managed Abortion?
You need to understand the abortion laws before self-managing an abortion because there are restrictions on abortion. Having access to abortion pills is not the same as abortion being legal and safe. We can provide medically accurate information to make sure you understand your options–so you can make an informed decision.
Should I book an appointment with an abortion clinic to get abortion pills to have a safe abortion?
There is vital information you need to know about abortion pills before you have an abortion with pills. If you are interested in a safe abortion, you should talk with us first – to learn about the risks and outcomes that you may experience. Abortion is a medical procedure that comes with risks. Abortion is a medical procedure that comes with risks. Being prepared to make a good choice is a lot more than knowing where the nearest planned parenthood health center is. Contact us.
Is Self-Managed Abortion really a miscarriage?
No. A miscarriage occurs naturally without someone trying to cause it. A self-managed abortion happens when someone takes the 1st abortion pill and the 2nd abortion pill in the medical abortion procedure – the mifepristone pill and the misoprostol pill. Taking the abortion pill is a medical procedure and needs supervision by a medical provider. If you have questions about the abortion pill, contact us as soon as possible. Contact us as soon as possible.
Mayo Clinic, Mifepristone (Oral Route)
If I want to get the abortion pill mailed to me, what is the cheapest and best option?
The FDA does not recommend buying the abortion pill online. According to the FDA, “The FDA does not have regulatory oversight of prescription medicines from outside the legitimate U.S. drug supply chain; therefore, the FDA cannot ensure the safety, effectiveness, or quality of those medications.” We do not recommend buying the abortion pill online. Contact us.
Which Abortion Provider provides abortion pills by mail?
Having abortion pill access online does not equate to a company being postured to provide abortion care. Instead of looking at a DIY abortion, we recommend you get seen by a doctor to protect your health. ThriVe+ offers pre-abortion screenings to help you understand the procedure and side effects – so you can make the best decision for your life. Before ordering and before consuming any potentially dangerous drugs, contact Thrive.
Is Abortion at home safe and effective?
Talk with our medical team before you induce an abortion with abortion pills for an at-home abortion. We would like to make sure you understand your options and know all of the risks before you make a decision. Side effects and painful cramping and bleeding after taking Plan C are very real. Many states restrict abortion access, including abortion pills because of the danger/harm that they can cause. Some states have banned abortion or created lots of restrictions, which means it can be hard or illegal to get the abortion pill in those states. If you are in a state where abortion is illegal, we urge you to not use alternate ways to access abortion pills as this illegal and dangerous. Talk to our team at Thrive to get the information you need to make a healthy decision.
Do I need a pregnancy test before talking to a doctor or nurse about getting an abortion?
Every type of abortion has risks. Talk with your doctor and get a 2nd opinion from our team at Thrive before you make a decision. Make a choice that will take care of your complete mental, physical, and long term health.
Abortion overview, Mayo Clinic.
Should I know how far along I am and when my last period was before taking abortion pills?
Yes. When considering the signs of pregnancy, you need a medical pregnancy confirmation. Signs and symptoms of pregnancy are helpful to understand but ultimately you need a pregnancy confirmation and an understanding of what you are starting/doing (such as risks and side effects) before taking an abortion pill. A pregnancy confirmation is best provided via ultrasound.
Medical Abortion Risks, Mayo Clinic.
I have heard about abortion funds, can I get help with abortion costs?
Thrive provides confidential pre-abortion screening services at no cost to you based on the generous donations of people in our community. We can provide you with top level medical advice and risk assessments. Contact us to understand your options – so you can be confident about your decision. Our medical team is ready to provide you with information and listen to you compassion and respect. Meanwhile, the National Abortion Federation funds help cover the cost of abortion.
Going back to the benefits of working with Thrive, Thrive does not profit from your decision and is dedicated to providing you with healthy and accurate information.