Iowa abortion pill.

Iowa Abortion Pill Information

Iowa abortion pill.

Abortion Pill

The abortion pill is a medical abortion.  This type of abortion uses two drugs.  The first medication (Mifepristone ) blocks the progesterone hormone which is needed for pregnancy to continue.  When used together with the second medication (Misoprostol), it will end an early pregnancy (70 days or less since the first day of the last menstrual period or 10 wks LMP) and is considered unsafe beyond that time.

The pill, mifepristone, causes an abortion by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for pregnancy to continue. The abortion pill is administered in three doses, along with another drug, misoprostol, and typically requires three clinic visits.

On the first visit, the woman takes three mifepristone abortion pills, which results in the death of the fetus.

On Day 3, she takes the second abortion pill, misoprostol, which will cause cramping to expel the fetus.

A follow-up visit is required two weeks after taking the abortion pill to ensure that the pregnancy has terminated. If an ultrasound scan shows that the fetus has not been expelled, a surgical abortion will be required, typically at an additional cost.

Other names for the abortion pill (Ru486):

Mifepristone is the generic name for RU-486. In the U.S., RU486 is sold under the brand names Mifeprex® and Early Option®.

The abortion pill involves two drugs:

When taken alone, RU486 results in a complete abortion only about 60% of the time. A second drug, a prostaglandin, is given 48 hours later to increase the abortion pill’s effectiveness. The prostaglandin causes uterine contractions to help expel the fetus. Misoprostol (brand name Cytotec) is the prostaglandin used with RU-486 in the U.S.

In Iowa the Abortion Pill is now available by mail. Before taking the Abortion Pill or any other medication, get information from a trusted source so that you understand how it works and the possible side effects.

Who Should not take the abortion pill (ru486):

The FDA advises that the Medication abortion pill (RU486) should NOT be taken if any one of the following circumstances apply:

  • It has been more than 49 days since your last menstrual period began.
  • You have an IUD, which must be removed before taking the pill.
  • Your healthcare provider has told you that you have an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy outside the uterus). Note: About 2% of pregnancies are ectopic.
  • You have problems with your adrenal glands (chronic adrenal failure).
  • You take a medicine to thin your blood.
  • You have a bleeding problem.
  • You take certain steroid medications.
  • You cannot return for the necessary follow-up visits (2 days and 14 days after taking RU-486).
  • You cannot easily access emergency medical help, including blood transfusions and emergency resuscitation, in the 2 weeks after taking the medication abortion pill.
  • You are allergic to mifepristone [RU-486], misoprostol, or medicines that contain misoprostol such as Cytotec or Arthrotec.

Adverse events and side effects of the abortion pill:

In U.S. trials of RU486/misoprostol, at least 99% of patients experienced at least one of the following medication abortion pill side effects:

  • Abdominal pain (cramping) (97%)
  • Nausea (67%)
  • Headache (32%)
  • Vomiting (34%)
  • Diarrhea (23%)
  • Dizziness (12%)
  • Fatigue (9%)
  • Back pain (9%)
  • Uterine hemorrhage (7%)
  • Fever (4%)
  • Viral infections (4%)
  • Vaginitis (4%)
  • Rigors (chills/shaking)(3%)

More than one adverse event was reported for most patients. Approximately 23% of the adverse events were judged to be “severe.”

The FDA is aware of women in the United States who died from sepsis (severe illness caused by infection of the bloodstream) after medical abortion with Mifeprex and misoprostol.

Calculating the Length of Pregnancy:

Doctors calculate the length of pregnancy by counting from the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP), approximately two weeks prior to conception (fertilization). So “up to 49 days LMP” means up to 5 weeks after conception.

Understanding the details and implications of choosing the medication abortion pill is crucial for anyone considering this option. It’s important to be fully aware of the time constraints, procedure, potential side effects, and risks involved with this form of abortion. The use of RU486, coupled with misoprostol, is a significant medical decision that should be made with comprehensive knowledge and under professional medical guidance.

For those considering this option, it’s vital to consult with healthcare professionals to ensure safety and to discuss any concerns or questions you might have. It’s equally important to understand the legal and health criteria that determine eligibility for taking the medication abortion pill. Remember, this decision is not just about the immediate termination of pregnancy but also involves considering your long-term health and well-being.

If you or someone you know is facing an unplanned pregnancy and contemplating a medication abortion, consider reaching out to your local Iowa pregnancy center for detailed information and support. Making an informed decision is essential, and it’s important to have access to all the facts and support systems available. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources and people ready to help you through this process.

Abortion Pill Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How Much Does the Abortion Pill Cost?

Answer:

The typical cost of the abortion pill ranges from $350 to $700, and it may be even higher depending on the provider. For the information you need, determine how far along you are in your pregnancy with our complimentary ultrasound services.

Question: How Can I Get the Abortion Pill?

Answer: You can get an abortion pill either through an abortion provider’s clinic or by an online mail source.  For mail order, in most cases, a telehealth appointment is required and the medication for the abortion is sent directly to you without an in-person physical examination.  A physical examination is important because it dates the pregnancy, rules out ectopic pregnancy, and determines viability (if you are at risk for miscarriage).  

Question: What are “Missed Period Pills?

Answer: sed period pill is another name for the abortion pill.  Some people may think it might help them psychologically if they’re unsure about abortion.  Regardless of its name, you should know that it is an abortion.

Iowa Pregnancy Centers

Iowa pregnancy centers are located in all major cities including Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Sioux City, Iowa City, Waterloo, Council Bluffs, Ames, West Des Moines, Dubuque, and even many smaller cities.

Most Iowa pregnancy centers listed offer free and confidential services including medical grade pregnancy tests and ultrasound exams.

Obria Medical Clinic
1606 Golden Aspen Dr, Suite 105
Ames, IA 50010
515-620-5892

Alpha Women's Center
114 SW State St
Ankeny, IA 50320
515-965-7885

Women's Choice Center
2740 Happy Joe Drive
Bettendorf, IA 52722
563-332-0475

Informed Choices Medical Clinic
1013 S. Central Avenue
Burlington, IA 52601
319-208-9445

Alternatives Pregnancy Center
2016 Campus Street
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
319-535-2720

Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center
4250 Glass Road NE Suite 100
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
319-364-8967

The Pregnancy Center
240 N Bluff Blvd Ste 105
Clinton, IA 52732
563-242-6628

Gabriel's Corner Pregnancy Center
131 S. 16th Street
Council Bluffs, IA 51502
712-318-1971

Pregnancy Resources
2706 W Central Park
Davenport, IA 52804
563-386-3737

Agape Pregnancy Clinic
2550 ML King Jr. Pkway
Des Moines, IA 50310
515-255-0243

Alpha Women's Center
3605 Southeast 14th Street
Des Moines, IA 50320
515-285-5700

Alternatives Pregnancy Center
2720 Merie Hay Rd
Des Moines, IA 60310
319-535-2720

InnerVisions Healthcare South
500 Army Post Road, Suite 100
Des Moines, IA 50315
515-440-2273

Clarity Clinic
3365 Hillcrest Rd
Dubuque, IA 52002
563-556-5250

Alternatives Pregnancy Center
2006 12th Ave, Lot 57
Eldora, IA 50627
319-535-2720

Cradle of Hope
1700 S. Main Street
Fairfield, IA 52556
319-931-5759

Cradle of Hope
3421 Avenue L
Fort Madison, IA 52627
319-931-5759

Agape Pregnancy Center
1700 W. 2nd Avenue
Indianola, IA 60125
515-255-0243

Informed Choices Medical Clinic
821 S. Gilbert St.
Iowa City, IA 52244
319-358-1000

The Lighthouse Center of Hope
409 Washington Ave
Iowa Falls, IA 50126
641-648-4198

Her Health Women's Center
25 Plymouth Street W
Le Mars, IA 51031
712-224-2000

Caring Pregnancy Center
830 15th St SW Suite 1
Mason City, IA 50401
641-424-2237

Pregnancy Resources
3825 16th Street
Moline, IA 61265
309-797-3636

Cradle of Hope
1400 E. Washington Street
Mt. Pleasant, IA 52641
319-986-5336

Pregnancy Center of Central Iowa
709 1st Ave W Ste 1
Newton, IA 50208
641-792-3050

Heartland Pregnancy Center
101 S Market St Ste 302
Ottumwa, IA 52501
641-683-3030

Pregnancy Care Center of Pella
1402 Washington Street
Pella, IA 50219
641-780-6075

Pregnancy Center of SW Iowa
101 E Reed Street
Red Oak, IA 51566
712-621-2117

Her Health Women's Center
5732 Sunnybrook Drive
Sioux City, IA 51106
712-224-2000

Mary's Choice
4415 Stone Ave
Sioux City, IA 51102
712-274-6279

Cornerstone for Life PRC
800 Oneida St, Suite 4
Storm Lake, IA 50588
712-299-1707

Alternatives Pregnancy Center
1006 Decathlon Dr
Waterloo, IA 50701
319-535-2720

Alternatives Pregnancy Center
215 3rd St NW
Waverly, IA 50677
319-535-2720

Iowa is located in the Midwestern United States and is known for its fertile farmland, picturesque landscapes, and strong agricultural industry. Iowa's geography includes rolling plains, river valleys, and a climate with hot summers and cold winters. As of 2022, the population of Iowa is projected to be 3.201 million. Universities in Iowa include: University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and many other colleges and universities. The capital is Des Moines, Iowa

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Do I need an appointment?

Answer: Walk-ins are welcome. However, it is best to make an appointment to minimize your office wait time. 

Question: What is the cost?

Answer: All services are free and confidential.

Question: What should I expect when I come for my visit?

Answer: Upon your arrival, a friendly receptionist will guide you to meet your client advocate. This advocate will offer you a judgment-free space to talk, followed by essential information and a pregnancy test. In the event of a positive test result, a dedicated medical professional will perform a limited ultrasound to verify the pregnancy's viability and estimate the age of the fetus.

Question: How long after sex does it take for a pregnancy test to work and how accurate is the test?

Answer: Pregnancy tests can be performed 7 to 10 days after conception. A client with a negative result may be invited to return within 2 weeks for a repeat test if she has not had her period.

If you have taken a home pregnancy test, you may want to confirm results with a laboratory-quality test at your local pregnancy center. These pregnancy tests detect HCg levels within 7 to 10 after conception.

Question: Will you tell anyone about my visit?

Answer: Pregnancy centers maintain a rigorous privacy and confidentiality policy. Clients' information is safeguarded against unauthorized disclosure, respecting their right to privacy, except in instances mandated by law. This includes situations necessary for public health, preventing harm to the client or others, or in specific circumstances where the use or disclosure of information is justified without prior consent, such as in cases of abuse reporting or suicide/homicide prevention.

Question: When should I schedule an appointment?

Answer: High-quality, medical-grade pregnancy tests are capable of detecting pregnancy from the first day after your initial missed period. We advise scheduling an appointment if you've missed a period, have any queries related to pregnancy, or suspect that you might be pregnant.

Question: How far along do I have to be to get a free ultrasound?

Answer: After an initial consultation with a client advocate, many pregnancy centers offer on-site ultrasound scans. These limited ultrasounds are conducted by a licensed nurse sonographer or a registered diagnostic medical sonographer (RDMS) and are subsequently reviewed by a licensed physician. The purpose of an ultrasound is to confirm the viability of the pregnancy and to establish the gestational age. 

Question: I already know I'm pregnant and I want an abortion, what's next?

Answer: It is advisable to have an ultrasound to confirm the viability of your pregnancy and to ensure it is located within the uterus, as 20% to 25% of pregnancies end in miscarriage. Moreover, the ultrasound helps in determining the stage of your pregnancy, which is essential in making an informed decision about the type of abortion procedure you may consider. Many pregnancy centers offer a limited ultrasound free of charge.

Client Reviews

from clients like you!

Pregnancy center review 5.

Excellent Facility.

"Was recommended to me while I was going through a difficult time during my pregnancy and has just lost my job. They helped me with counseling, bible studies, support and lots of things for me and my baby. I am very grateful to have found them and all the help they have provided to me and my children." Angelina
Pregnancy center review 3.

These Ladies Deserve a 10 star Review!!!

"My experience was beautiful. The atmosphere was just what I needed. My husband and I found them on Google, and we decided to visit them after reviewing the amazing reviews. I must say they were very professional and caring. This is not your regular sonography center; they take their time to go through the entire process with you with so much love and care for FREE. May God continue to empower you ladies to keep up the great work you all are doing for the community to help all women. God bless you ladies!" Kayla
Pregnancy center review 2.

Me and My Partner’s Experience Was Excellent!

"Our experience with them was excellent! Their response time is superb, calling the same day. They are very kind and they served the highest quality of their medical promise, not to mention it all being free. We were shown many resources that needy couples do not easily find. The environment is very home-like providing a space which is comfortable. The sonographers are down-to-earth and engage in comforting conversation before, during and after the sonogram. They are willing to keep in touch with you, and they will refer you to their extended team if you need help (i.e., free clinics, abortion references, insurance). I recommend pregnancy centers 100%, and if you are a woman or a couple which needs help, there isn't a better place to go. This team is not here to make a buck out of you: they care about you and will go above and beyond to do all they can to help you." Lamyka
Pregnancy center review 6.

A HUGE Blessing.

"The times I have interacted with our local pregnancy center have always proved to be a great experience. The work they do not only to help women in times of need with heartfelt compassion, but after that with assisting them with material goods such as diapers, car seats, etc. is awesome. Their devotion to helping women is truly inspiring." Theresa
Pregnancy center review 1.

I Had a Wonderful Experience.

"I was nervous and had many questions before I got there. I was educated on what to expect and was given a lot of useful information. This experience made my husband and I feel so much better we are excited about our new journey as parents. I would highly recommend this company and their wonderful staff to guide you on your journey. The ultrasound went smoothly and the ladies here are incredibly kind and wonderful people. I was so excited to see our ultrasound. Definitely would recommend to all women that are looking confidential, smooth, wonderful experience. I am extremely grateful for their kindness, professionalism, and their care." Alisha
Pregnancy center review 4.

Very Professional and Clean Environment.

"I will definitely recommend them. They speak both English and Spanish to help those who don’t understand English all that well. Took a friend there who believed she was pregnant and with their help she found out she was. Thank you so much." Stella

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