How much does the abortion pill cost?
How much does the abortion pill cost?
$30 – $200 cost from online clinic or pill website
$300 – $800 cost at an in-person clinic
Abortion pill cost
The abortion pill costs $300 to $800 without insurance from an in-person clinic or $30 to $200 from an online clinic. With insurance coverage, prices can be as low as $5, depending on the insurance plan and which pharmacy you choose. Average prices at Planned Parenthood range from $400 to $700.
Online and in-person providers offer a combination abortion pill kit containing both Mifepristone and Misoprostol tablets.
Provider | Average cost (without insurance) |
---|---|
In-person clinic | $300 – $800 |
Online clinic | $50 – $200 |
Pill website | $30 – $150 |
Planned Parenthood | $400 – $700 |
In-person clinic
The abortion pill costs $300 to $800 at an in-person clinic. This higher price often includes additional services, such as:
A physical examination
Laboratory tests
The medication itself
Follow-up care
While more expensive, in-person clinics offer personalized care and immediate medical attention if needed.
Online clinic
Online clinics provide a more affordable option, with prices ranging from $50 to $200. These clinics can be a good option for those who prefer privacy or live far from physical clinics. Their service often includes:
Virtual consultation with a healthcare provider
Prescription for the medication
Shipping of the pills to your home
Online follow-up support
Pill website
The most affordable option is obtaining the abortion pill through dedicated pill websites, with costs ranging from $30 to $150. However, it's crucial to ensure you're using a reputable source. These websites typically:
Ship generic versions of the medication internationally
Provide basic instructions for use
May offer limited online support
While cost-effective, this option comes with higher risks and less personalized care.
Planned Parenthood
At Planned Parenthood centers, abortion pill prices range from $400 to $700 on average without insurance, depending on the location. Costs may be lower with health insurance if your plan covers abortions.
How does the abortion pill work?
The "abortion pill" refers to a combination of two medications:
Mifepristone: This pill blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for pregnancy to continue. It works by detaching the pregnancy from the uterine lining.
Misoprostol: Taken 24 to 48 hours after Mifepristone, this medication causes contractions to expel the pregnancy tissue.
The medical abortion pill is effective for early pregnancies up to 10 to 11 weeks gestation. The process usually takes a few days to complete and mimics the process of a natural miscarriage.
It's important to note that while often called a "pill," this method actually involves taking multiple pills over a period of a few days.
Where to get the abortion pill
You can get the abortion pill from:
Licensed healthcare providers
Planned Parenthood centers
Independent abortion clinics
Online clinics and telemedicine services
Abortion pill websites
Community networks
It's important to get the abortion pill from a reputable source to guarantee its safety and effectiveness. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using any medication for abortion.
The abortion pill's availability and legality vary by state. Check local regulations and ask your healthcare provider for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
FAQs about abortion pills
How effective is the abortion pill?
The abortion pill is highly effective, with a success rate of 87% to 99%, depending on how far along the pregnancy is and the pill dosage you take:
8 weeks pregnant or less: 94% to 98%
8 to 9 weeks pregnant: 94% to 96%
9 to 10 weeks pregnant: 91% to 93% with a standard dose of misoprostol or 99% with an extra dose
10 to 11 weeks pregnant: 87% with a standard dose of misoprostol or 98% with an extra dose
Does the abortion pill hurt?
Most women experience cramping and bleeding, similar to a heavy period. Pain levels vary, but over-the-counter pain medications can usually manage discomfort. Some women describe the pain as similar to severe menstrual cramps, while others may experience more intense pain. Ask your healthcare provider about pain management options.
How long do you bleed after taking an abortion pill?
Bleeding typically lasts 9 to 16 days but can continue up to 30 days. Heavy bleeding usually subsides within 24 hours after taking misoprostol. It's normal to pass large clots during this process. Contact your healthcare provider if the bleeding becomes excessively heavy.
How late can you take the abortion pill?
You can take the abortion pill up to 77 days, or 11 weeks, after the first day of your last period.
Is Plan B an abortion pill?
No, Plan B is not the same as the abortion pill. Plan B, or the morning-after pill, prevents pregnancy by delaying or preventing ovulation. The abortion pill terminates an existing early pregnancy. Plan B is most effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse and does not affect an established pregnancy.
Does insurance cover the abortion pill?
Insurance coverage for the abortion pill varies widely by provider, plan, and location. Some private insurance plans cover abortion pills. Several states have laws restricting insurance coverage for abortion, while other states mandate coverage for abortion for all plans on the Health Insurance Marketplace.
Always check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details. If your insurance doesn't cover the abortion pill, ask your healthcare provider about any available financial assistance programs.