What’s the Difference Between the Abortion Pill and Plan B?
It’s easy to confuse the abortion pill and Plan B, but they are two very different drugs used for distinct purposes. Keep reading to learn the key differences.
If you’re unsure whether or not you’re pregnant or you have questions about your options, Crystal Women’s Clinic is here for you. Schedule a free and confidential appointment to get answers in a safe, supportive environment.
How the Abortion Pill Works
The abortion pill is not a single pill but a two-step process involving two prescription drugs:
- Mifepristone, which blocks the hormone progesterone to end the pregnancy.
- Misoprostol, taken 24–48 hours later, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding.
This abortion method is used to terminate an existing pregnancy and is FDA-approved only through the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. Because it causes heavy bleeding, strong cramping, and carries potential risks, it should never be taken without medical oversight.
How Plan B Works
Plan B, sometimes called the “morning-after pill,” is made of a single drug called levonorgestrel. It works by delaying or preventing ovulation, which means no egg is released for sperm to fertilize.
Plan B is meant to reduce the chance of pregnancy after unprotected sex, but if ovulation has already occurred, it may not be effective. In 2022, the FDA updated its labeling to clarify that evidence does not suggest Plan B impacts implantation and therefore does not cause abortion.
Key Differences to Remember
- The abortion pill ends a pregnancy, while Plan B is designed to prevent one from starting.
- The abortion pill requires a prescription and medical follow-up, while Plan B does not.
- The abortion pill causes heavy vaginal bleeding, while Plan B may cause light, temporary spotting.
Protecting Your Health
Whether you’re worried about being pregnant or already know you are, you don’t have to face this situation alone. At Crystal Women’s Clinic, we provide free pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and a safe place to ask your questions and learn more about your options.
If you’re considering having an abortion, an ultrasound can protect your health by giving you essential health details.
Schedule your free appointment today to get the information and support you deserve.
Pregnancy Testing
A pregnancy test determines whether you are pregnant by detecting the presence of hCG, the hormone associated with pregnancy. You will give a urine sample during your appointment, and then one of our nurses will administer the test. Testing only takes a few minutes, and you will have your result during your appointment.
Ultrasounds
Determine what choices you have with an ultrasound. An ultrasound may alert you to any complications. It is a necessary step of the pregnancy confirmation process, as it’s the only way to confirm three aspects of your pregnancy. Get a free ultrasound with us today.
Pregnancy Testing
A pregnancy test determines whether you are pregnant by detecting the presence of hCG, the hormone associated with pregnancy. You will give a urine sample during your appointment, and then one of our nurses will administer the test. Testing only takes a few minutes, and you will have your result during your appointment.
Ultrasounds
Determine what choices you have with an ultrasound. An ultrasound may alert you to any complications. It is a necessary step of the pregnancy confirmation process, as it’s the only way to confirm three aspects of your pregnancy. Get a free ultrasound with us today.
