Minnesota Abortion Pill Information
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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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.
Minnesota Pregnancy Centers
Minnesota pregnancy centers are located in all major cities including Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Rochester, Bloomington, Duluth, Brooklyn Park, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Woodbury, St. Cloud, and even many smaller cities.
Most Minnesota pregnancy centers listed offer free and confidential services including medical grade pregnancy tests and ultrasound exams.
1309 Hwy 29 N, Suite 102
Alexandria, MN 56308
320-762-1224
Women's Care Center
1902 5th Ave #3
Anoka, MN 55303
763-208-0076
Pregnancy Choices
15010 Glazier Ave Ste 104
Apple Valley, MN 55124
952-234-9850
Rachel's Hope
313 2nd Ave NE
Austin, MN 55912
507-437-7595
Northwoods Pregnancy Center
2300 Bemidji Ave N
Bemidji, MN 56601
218-444-3035
Elevate Life
2626 E. 82nd Street, Suite 210
Bloomington, MN 55425
651-291-9473
Lakes Area Pregnancy Support
315 E. River Road #1
Brainerd, MN 56401
218-825-0793
Amnion Pregnancy Center
13775 Nicollet Ave S
Burnsville, MN 55337
952-209-9990
Metro Women's Center
6418 Bass Lake Rd
Crystal, MN 55428
763-533-8642
New Beginnings Pregnancy & Family Support
17 1st Street NE
Deer River, MN 56636
218-246-2010
Women's Care Center
103 E. 1st Street
Duluth, MN 55802
218-623-7200
Lex Clinic - East Bethal
18553 MN-65 NE
East Bethel, MN 55011
763-296-2696
SouthWest Options for Women
574 Prairie Center Drive
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
952-938-4496
Elevier Women's Center
19022 Freeport St NW Suite E
Elk River, MN 55330
763-441-7777
Options Pregnancy Center
322 E. Blue Earth Avenue
Fairmont, MN 56031
507-238-2330
Pregnancy Options
18 2nd Street NW
Faribault, MN 55021
507-332-7644
Health Resources LifeCare Center
126 E. Lincoln Ave.
Fergus Falls, MN 56537
218-736-6050
Lakes LifeCare Center
840 West Broadway Ave Ste. 100
Forest Lake, MN 55025
651-464-4340
New Beginnings Pregnancy Care Center
605 NW 4th Street
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
218-326-0404
TLC of Hastings PRC
1125 S. Frontage Road, Suite 2
Hastings, MN 55033
651-437-4200
Family Life Center
802 E Howard Ste. 4
Hibbing, MN 55746
218-262-5768
Northern Options for Women
923 5th Street
International Falls, MN 56649
218-285-7673
Pregnancy & Life Resource Center - Medical Clinic
22 2nd Street N
Long Prairie, MN 56347
320-874-0124
Options for Women
11 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 011
Mankato, MN 56001
507-625-2229
Choices Pregnancy Center
1212 E. College Dr, Suite 2
Marshall, MN 56258
507-637-2534
Rum River Life Choice
1006 5th Street
Milaca, MN 56353
320-983-3771
First Care Pregnancy Center
2900 University Ave SE
Minneapolis, MN 55414
612-623-8378
First Care Pregnancy Center
2015 Chicago Ave S
Minneapolis, MN 55414
612-623-8378
Crystal Women's Clinic
5640 W. Broadway Ave
Minneapolis, MN 55412
763-531-9554
Abria
2232 W. Broadway Ave
Minneapolis, MN 55411
561-695-0111
Tandem
4105 Chicago Ave South
Minneapolis, MN 55407
612-823-0301
The City Life Center
2520 Park Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55423
612-874-1808
New Life Family Services
2015 Chicago Ave S
Minneapolis, MN 55404
612-866-7643
114 Maple Avenue West Ste. 2
Mora, MN 55051
320-679-4493
Options for Women Morris
615 Atlantic Avenue
Morris, MN 56267
320-589-0300
First Choice Pregnancy Services
1223 S. Broadway
New Ulm, MN 56073
507-359-9800
Options for Women
6344 Elm Street
North Branch, MN 55056
651-674-2121
Crisis Pregnancy Center of Northfield
314 Washington St
Northfield, MN 55057
507-645-7638
Project Life Medical Center
14563 60th Street N
Oak Park Heights, MN 55082
651-439-5964
Pregnancy Resource Center
200 West Sixth Street
Park Rapids, MN 56470
218-732-5212
Pregnancy Resource Center
162 Evergreen Square SW
Pine City, MN 55063
320-629-2792
Rum River Life Choices Center
712 S. Rum River Dr
Princeton, MN 55371
763-389-7876
Alpha Women's Center
15033 State Hwy 13
Prior Lake, MN 55372
952-495-0300
New Beginnings Pregnancy & Family Services
1614 W 3rd Street
Red Wing, MN 55066
651-267-4357
First Care Pregnancy Center
6517 Nicollet Ave S
Richfield, MN 55423
612-866-7643
First Care Pregnancy Center
1515 E 66th Street
Richfield, MN 55423
612-866-7715
First Care Pregnancy Center
40 16th Street SE
Rochester, MN 55904
507-282-3377
North Region Pregnancy Care Center
1307 3rd St NE Ste. 101
Roseau, MN 56751
218-463-0580
Sandstone Options for Women Medical Ctr
927 State Highway 23N
Sandstone, MN 55072
320-216-7633
Options for Women
1225 Timberlane Dr
Sauk Centre, MN 56378
320-351-4025
Pregnancy Resource Center
305 5th Avenue South, Suite 170
St Cloud, MN 56301
320-216-3368
Abria Pregnancy Resources Medical Ctr
2200 University Ave W, Suite 160
St Paul, MN 55114
651-695-0111
Women's LifeCare Center
2870 Middle Street
St Paul, MN 55117
651-777-0350
First Care Pregnancy Center
2105 Old Hudson Rd
St Paul, MN 55119
651-730-4342
Love Lines Christian Crisis Center
2855 Anthony Lane S, Suite 115
St. Anthony, MN 55418
612-379-1199
Lakes Area Pregnancy Support
616 4th Street NE
Staples, MN 56479
218-432-2439
LifeCare Center of Thief River Falls
2017 Hwy 59 SE
Thief River Falls, MN 56701
218-681-1279
Lakes Area Pregnancy Support
15 Dayton Ave
Wadena, MN 56482
219-632-2439
Elevate Pregnancy & Family Res Center
376 3rd St NE
Waite Park, MN 56387
320-242-4150
Pregnancy Resource Center
141 Waite Ave N
Waite Park, MN 56387
320-216-3368
Walker Area Pregnancy Support Center
102 8th Street N
Walker, MN 56484
218-547-5433
Guiding Star Wakota
1140 S Robert St
West St Paul, MN 55118
651-457-1195
Hope Pregnancy Center
1520 Mavis Lane
Willmar, MN 56201
320-235-7619
Options for Women Woodbury
1000 Radio Drive, Suite 200
Woodbury, MN 55125
651-340-9062
Helping Hand Pregnancy Center
910 3rd Ave
Worthington, MN 56187
800-712-4357
Minnesota, located in the northern part of the United States, is known for its diverse natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and strong cultural traditions. Minneapolis is its largest city and a major cultural and economic hub. Minnesota features a mix of forests, lakes, and prairies, with a climate characterized by cold winters and warm, humid summers. As of 2022, the population of Minnesota is projected to be 5.717 million. Universities in Minnesota include: University of Minnesota, Minnesota State University, and many other colleges and universities. The capital is Saint Paul, Minnesota
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.