The Abortion Pill and the Morning–After Pill Are They the Same?
The Abortion Pill, currently marketed as Mifeprex in the United States and RU-486 in Europe, is used to abort a baby within the first 7 weeks of pregnancy. The Morning-After Pill, currently marketed as Plan B, is meant to provide security to a woman who is fearful of a pregnancy due to unprotected sexual intercourse. Although Plan B could serve as a contraceptive, it could also work as an abortifacient. There is clearly a difference between these two drugs, but neither should be used due to the risks to the health and life of the mother as well as her baby.
The Abortion Pill
The Abortion Pill, currently marketed as Mifeprex in the United States and RU-486 in Europe, is used to abort a baby within the first 7 weeks of pregnancy. The Morning-After Pill, currently marketed as Plan B, is meant to provide security to a woman who is fearful of a pregnancy due to unprotected sexual intercourse. Although Plan B could serve as a contraceptive, it could also work as an abortifacient. There is clearly a difference between these two drugs, but neither should be used due to the risks to the health and life of the mother as well as her baby.
The Abortion Pill
- Brand Name: Mifeprex Promoted As: Alternative to surgical abortion
- When Used: Up to 7th week of pregnancy
- How It Works: Keeps progesterone from supporting a pregnancy.
- Does it kill a baby? Always
- Side Effects: Cramping, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, but also the possibility of heavy bleeding or infection that could lead to hospitalization or even death.
- Brand Name: Plan B
- Promoted As: Emergency Contraception
- When Used: Within 72 hours after sex.
- How it works: Suppresses ovulation and thins uterine lining to prevent implantation.
- Does it kill a baby? Sometimes
- Side Effects: Similar to birth control pills – nausea, headache, abdominal pain, but also more serious concerns such as blood clotting and heart problems that could lead to hospitalization or even death.
