Can You Buy the Abortion Pill Online? What to Know First.
Can You Buy the Abortion Pill Online? What to Know First.
If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, you may be searching online for quick answers, including whether you can buy the abortion pill online in Texas. It is illegal to ship abortion inducing drugs into the state of Texas. The FDA advises against ordering pills online as they come from overseas and may bypass important safeguards or could be counterfeited. (1,2)
Because abortion laws and regulations continue to change across the United States, it’s important to get current, accurate information and understand the potential risks involved.
What Is the Abortion Pill?
The FDA approved "abortion pill" generally refers to a medical abortion method that involves taking two different medications to terminate an early pregnancy. The first medication blocks the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for pregnancy to continue. Without progesterone, the lining of the uterus breaks down, and the pregnancy cannot continue. The second medication is taken 24 to 48 hours later. It causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through the vagina.(3)
Can You Buy the Abortion Pill Online in Texas?
Abortion is illegal in the state of Texas except to preserve the life of the mother. It is also illegal to ship abortion inducing drugs into the state of Texas. The abortion pill is only FDA-approved up to 10 weeks of gestation and should not be ordered online as it could bypass important safeguards. An ultrasound is recommended to determine the viability (the pregnancy has not miscarried and is not ectopic(4)) and length of pregnancy before taking the abortion pill or proceeding with an in-clinic abortion. (1,2,3)
Why Medical Confirmation Matters First
Before taking abortion medication, it’s important to confirm:
- How far along the pregnancy is
- Whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus (4)
- Whether there are medical conditions that could increase risks
For example, the abortion pill should not be used in cases of ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy outside the uterus) (4).
An ultrasound can help determine gestational age and rule out certain medical concerns. Without this information, it may be harder to identify complications.
Potential Risks and Complications
Bleeding and cramping are expected during a medication abortion. However, heavy bleeding, severe pain, fever, or ongoing symptoms may require medical attention. (6)
Possible complications can include:
- Incomplete abortion
- Heavy bleeding
- Infection
- Undiagnosed ectopic pregnancy (4)
Miscarriage Care Is Not Affected
It’s important to clarify that Texas’s abortion laws
do not restrict access to miscarriage care or ectopic care. A miscarriage (spontaneous pregnancy loss) is
not the same as an abortion, and medical care for miscarriage remains
fully legal and available throughout the state. (4.5) Unfortunately, misinformation has led some to believe that emergency care for miscarriage is no longer accessible in states with abortion bans. This is
not true and can be harmful. Miscarriages can present serious health risks, and hospitals in Texas are both
legally permitted and equipped to provide appropriate medical care. If you or someone you know is experiencing a miscarriage, do not hesitate to seek emergency medical attention.
The Legal Landscape in Texas
Abortion is currently banned in that state of Texas except to preserve the life of the mother. The following regulations are currently in effect: It is illegal to ship abortion inducing drugs into the state of Texas. The FDA advises against ordering pills online as they come from overseas and may bypass important safeguards or could be counterfeited. (1,2,3)
Although abortion is not legal in Texas, there are still important steps you can take before traveling out of state. One of the most critical is scheduling a free and confidential ultrasound at our center. An ultrasound can confirm whether you have a viable pregnancy (meaning the pregnancy has not miscarried and is not ectopic) and determine how far along you are - key information that impacts what type of abortion procedure you may be eligible for in another state.
Get the Facts Before You Decide
If you’re considering the abortion pill, getting accurate medical information first can help you make an informed decision about your health and pregnancy. A medical-grade pregnancy test, ultrasound, and consultation can provide important details about your pregnancy and available options.
At McAllen Pregnancy Center in McAllen, Texas, we provide a safe, confidential space to ask questions, learn more about your pregnancy, and explore your options. You deserve clear information, compassionate care, and the opportunity to make an informed decision.
References:
1. HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE CHAPTER 170A. PERFORMANCE OF ABORTION
2. HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE CHAPTER 171. ABORTION
4.Ectopic pregnancy - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic
