If you’ve recently missed a period and are wondering why, you might have come across some sites online advertising the term “missed period pill” and wondered what it means.
The “missed period pill” is not a medical term or health treatment. In reality, this is actually the abortion pill hidden behind marketing terms. The danger behind this is that a missed period can happen due to a variety of reasons, not just pregnancy. Without proper medical screening first, taking these drugs could pose health risks.
At Alpha Omega Center, we offer free pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds following a positive result to give you the clarity you need over whether or not you’re pregnant.
We are here for you and will provide you with factual information about your options so you can make an informed choice if you are pregnant.
Schedule your free and confidential appointment today.
What the “Missed Period Pill” Actually Is
The “missed period pill” is often used informally online to describe the two drugs used in medication abortion: mifepristone and misoprostol. Some online sources may also use phrases such as ‘menstrual regulation’ or ‘bringing on their period’.
The whole point of the “missed period pill” is to avoid confirming a pregnancy. However, taking the abortion pill without first confirming the pregnancy is not medically recommended and potentially dangerous.
The abortion pill works by taking mifepristone first to block the pregnancy hormone progesterone and then misoprostol, which causes cramping and bleeding to expel the pregnancy tissue from the uterus.
Why a Missed Period Doesn’t Always Mean Pregnancy
A missed or late period does not mean you are pregnant. Menstrual cycles can change for many reasons, and taking this drug will not address underlying health conditions.
Some common reasons for a missed period include:
- Stress
- Weight gain or loss
- Illness
- Hormonal imbalances
- Anovulation
- Exercise changes
If you are not getting a period at all, or if it is irregular, you should talk with your OB/GYN about potential causes. We also offer free Well-Woman visits at our clinic to check your reproductive health.
Why Pregnancy Confirmation Matters First
Before taking mifepristone and misoprostol, it is important to confirm whether you are pregnant and to provide key medical details, such as the location of the pregnancy, how far along you are, and the pregnancy’s viability.
A pregnancy test alone cannot provide this information, which is why an ultrasound is also an important step beforehand.
For example, you could have a potential ectopic pregnancy without knowing unless you have a test and an ultrasound. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside of your uterus, most commonly in your fallopian tube. It is a life-threatening condition and requires emergency medical treatment. The FDA states you should not take mifepristone and misoprostol if you have an ectopic pregnancy.
You may also take these drugs when you are too far along without knowing. The FDA only approves medical abortion up to ten weeks of gestation. Taking it beyond this could increase the chances of complications, such as an incomplete abortion and infection.
Getting an accurate medical screening first before taking these drugs helps protect your health and safety. If you are not pregnant, there is no reason to take abortion medication.
Get the Clarity You Need at Alpha Omega Center
We are here to support you by providing pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and STI testing so you can receive clear, accurate information about your pregnancy and options. All of our appointments and services are free and confidential.
Contact us to make your appointment and receive the care and support you deserve.
Alpha Omega Center does not provide or refer for abortions.