The terms get used interchangeably online, but Plan B and the abortion pill are not the same drug. The sections below explain each in more detail.
Questions? We’re here to help. Schedule a free, confidential appointment at Women’s Clinic Tallahassee.
How Plan B Works
Plan B, commonly called the morning-after pill, contains levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone that works primarily by delaying or preventing ovulation when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex.
Though it was once thought that Plan B might prevent implantation in the uterus, the FDA now recognizes that there is insufficient evidence to support this mechanism. Reflecting this, the FDA updated Plan B’s drug label in December 2022 to state that the drug does not affect fertilization or implantation and does not end an existing pregnancy.
Taking Plan B while pregnant is not recommended, as it may harm the pregnancy. If there’s a possibility you’re already pregnant, a conversation with the medical staff at Women’s Clinic Tallahassee or another healthcare professional can help clarify where things stand and answer any questions you may have.
How the Abortion Pill Works
The abortion pill, also called medical abortion, uses two drugs to end an existing pregnancy. It is not emergency contraception.
The first drug, mifepristone, blocks progesterone, the hormone that the pregnancy needs to continue. The second drug, misoprostol, is taken one to two days later. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping.
The FDA has approved this regimen through 10 weeks of gestation. It requires a prescription and medical oversight.
Possible risks include:
- Heavy or prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- An incomplete abortion, which may require follow-up treatment
Women’s Clinic Is Here For You
Having the facts before making any decision matters. Women’s Clinic Tallahassee is here to support your health and help you feel informed and confident.
We provide free lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and can answer your questions about Plan B, pregnancy, and your options. Schedule your confidential appointment today. Call (850) 656-9177 or text (850) 616-7153.
Women’s Clinic does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
