What Is The Difference Between The Abortion Pill And Plan B?

Have you ever wondered if Plan B and the abortion pill are the same? It’s a common point of confusion for many. The abortion pill and Plan B are actually two unique medications, and both result in differing outcomes. 

Are you unexpectedly pregnant and considering termination? 

Or did your partner’s condom break during sex? 

If the first scenario describes your situation, you will need more information regarding an abortion and the abortion pill. If you had unprotected sex within the last 72 hours and are hoping not to get pregnant, you may be a candidate for Plan B. 

Plan B

Plan B is known as an emergency contraceptive, meaning it works primarily to prevent fertilization, not terminate an existing pregnancy. It slows ovulation, inhibits fertilization, and may keep a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. 

It contains levonorgestrel, which is a synthetic form of the hormone progestin. Plan B, also called the morning-after pill, is designed to be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex. 

The Abortion Pill

Medical abortion is designed to terminate an early pregnancy up to 70 days along. (If you are pregnant, an ultrasound will confirm if you are within that period of eligibility.) Made up of two doses, the abortion pill uses the drugs mifepristone and misoprostol. 

Mifepristone

According to the Mayo Clinic, mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, which keeps the pregnancy from progressing. 

Misoprostol

The second drug, misoprostol, is given about 24 hours after mifepristone and causes heavy bleeding and uterine contractions.

These contractions cause the uterus to expel the pregnancy. 

Free Services in Fort Wayne and Columbia City, IN

If you are unsure which option is right for your situation, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. 

Decisions about your health and future can be heavy. Having a non-judgmental support system is vital for your mental health. 

We are here to help guide you through the questions you may have about Plan B and the abortion pill, and to provide free pregnancy testing, STD testing, ultrasounds, and other services if needed. 

A Hope Center does not provide or refer for abortions.