There has been a lot of publicity about both of these methods for controlling pregnancy. What is the difference between them?
Plan B
Also known as Plan B One-Step, it is a medication that has been designed as a backup method for birth control. If there was unprotected sex, sexual assault, or a failure of a birth control method (a pill was forgotten or the condom breaks), Plan B One-Step can be taken.
Plan B will not interrupt a pregnancy once it has been implanted in the uterine wall. It is designed to prevent ovulation or implantation.
In other words, Plan B does not stop a pregnancy. Instead, it prevents one from occurring.
The Abortion Pill
Known as medical abortion, the abortion pill is actually two types of medication taken a couple of days apart. The purpose of these medications is to remove a pregnancy that has already been implanted in the uterus.
Mifepristone is taken first, usually in a medical office. It works to decrease the amount of progesterone, a hormone needed for a fetus to grow. A couple of days later, Misoprostol is usually taken at home. It causes cramping, which expels the uterine contents.
The main difference between Plan B and the abortion pills is that Plan B prevents a pregnancy, and the abortion pills terminate a pregnancy that has already been implanted.
We Can Help
If you think you might be pregnant, it can be a confusing and scary time. We’re here to answer your questions and concerns. Our compassionate team can provide you with a free pregnancy test to begin your journey to clarity. We also provide information on all your options.
Before moving forward, we recommend a free and confidential pregnancy test at A Choice for Women. If you receive a positive result again, we also offer limited ultrasounds.
In the event of a positive test, we can provide financial assistance that can help you. To qualify for financial assistance, you will need to come in and talk to one of our counselors.
Schedule a pregnancy test appointment to begin. You are not alone.