What’s the Difference Between the Abortion Pill and Plan B?

July 30, 2024

The abortion pill goes by many names: medical abortion, at-home abortion, self-managed abortion, mail-order abortion, medication abortion, and even Plan C.

But is it the same as Plan B?

With all the names, social media posts, and online information, the distinction between the abortion pill and plan B can be unclear. Read on to learn the differences.

What Are They Made Out of?

Let’s start with the very basic elements of the abortion pill and Plan B. The differences begin with the drugs’ ingredients.

The abortion pill method consists of two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. In contrast, Plan B uses a drug called levonorgestrel. Both of these drug regimens function in different ways.

During a medical abortion, mifepristone blocks progesterone to end a pregnancy. Then days or hours later, misoprostol triggers uterine contractions, abdominal cramping, and vaginal bleeding to expel the pregnancy and related tissue.

Levonorgestrel can prevent ovulation, block fertilization, or keep a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. However, the FDA updated the drug’s label in 2022 because they believe the data is weak or speculative for preventing fertilization or implantation.

Two Different Purposes

As described above, the abortion pill intentionally terminates a progressing pregnancy. Plan B, on the other hand, is meant to prevent pregnancy.

Once pregnancy begins, Plan B will not work to end the pregnancy. You take Plan B to prevent pregnancy from occurring.

Make an Informed Choice

Whether you’re considering the abortion pill or Plan B, it’s essential to be aware of the ingredients, side effects, and risks to make an informed choice for your health.

While it’s easy to access most drugs online, it’s also critical to assess suppliers to make sure you are not receiving drugs from unregulated or shady sources.

Also, if you’re considering an abortion, first receive an ultrasound.

Certain health conditions make the abortion pill unsafe. The abortion pill is not recommended if you suspect you have an ectopic pregnancy (these require immediate treatment!) or are too far along in your pregnancy (beyond ten weeks).

Schedule a Free Appointment

Visit Care Net Pregnancy Centers of Albuquerque for free and confidential pregnancy services, including pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and STI testing.We offer five locations and a medical mobile unit. Choose the one most convenient for you. Schedule today! We’re here to help.

lets talk

Going to Carenet was such a good decision. I initially only went to get a positive test result so we could share with our family over the holidays. But I went back because the women here are so kind, supportive, and understanding. I don’t have family in this area, and Carenet has been like a trusted sister to me. I go every week now and they have helped me understand what birth will be like, how to care for my baby girl, and what to expect in the meantime. They also have the resources to provide diapers, wipes, clothes, baby shoes, hats, blankets, books, maternity clothes, and SO MUCH more. Carenet is an invaluable resource for any woman having a baby. They are incredibly kind, reassuring, and I’m so blessed to have these women in my life. I would give a 10million/5 stars if I could!!

These ladies are extremely kind and helpful!

Staff is so kind and respectful. If you're pregnant, scared and don't know what to do, this is the place to go.

Care Net Pregnancy Center helped me find healing from my abortion decision many years ago. They are Kind, Compassionate and Caring! The men and women at Care Net truly care for every person that goes through their doors!