

Considering the Abortion Pill in Illinois?
Before taking the abortion pill, schedule a pre-abortion screening that includes:
- Medical-grade pregnancy test
- Medical Diagnostic Ultrasound
- STI Testing and Treatment Referrals
- Options Counseling
- Abortion Information and Education

How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
Although it’s referred to as a pill (singular), the abortion pill actually consists of two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone – Mifepristone is the first drug taken in the abortion pill regimen. This drug stops the body from producing progesterone, a necessary hormone for the pregnancy to grow.
Misoprostol – Misoprostol is the second abortion pill taken. This drug causes the uterus to contract and prepares the body to expel the pregnancy.
How Late Can You Take the Abortion Pill?
You can’t take the abortion pill beyond 10 weeks of pregnancy (or 70 days since the first day of your last menstrual period)[1]. This is because it becomes less effective the farther along you are. If you take the abortion pill later on in your pregnancy, you could experience serious complications and may need emergency surgery to complete the procedure.


Do I Need an Ultrasound Before Taking the Abortion Pill?
Ultrasounds provide the insight needed to make an informed and empowered decision for an unexpected pregnancy! They determine three key things about your pregnancy: pregnancy in the uterus, viability, and gestational age.
What is Pregnancy Viability?
A viable pregnancy means that the pregnancy is progressing properly. For example, at about six weeks, the embryo should have a heartbeat[2].
The goal is to rule out a nonviable pregnancy, such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy—in either case, abortion isn’t needed.
What is Gestational Age?
How far along am I? Your ultrasound can answer that question! It’s important to know your gestational age, as abortion is only legal in Illinois until viability, which is usually around 24 to 26 weeks of pregnancy.
If you intend to travel out of state for an abortion, be aware that the surrounding areas may prohibit abortion beyond a certain point in your pregnancy as well. Additionally, you can’t take the abortion pill beyond 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Do I Need a Prescription for the Abortion Pill? Can I Get the Abortion Pill Over the Counter?
Certain pharmacies are now authorized to sell the abortion pill over the counter. However, the FDA requires a prescription from a qualified physician in order to take it[1].


Can I Order the Abortion Pill Online?
The FDA advises against ordering the abortion pill online. Many online abortion pill providers are located overseas, so the pills they provide may not meet FDA standards[1].
These pills could be counterfeit, expired, or even tampered with! It’s best to be cautious and avoid ordering the abortion pill online.
Abortion Pill Side Effects
- Cramping and heavy vaginal bleeding
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Fever/Chills
- Vomiting/Diarrhea
- Headache/Dizziness
- Anxiety

Abortion Pill Information in Evergreen Park, Illinois
When those two lines first appear, it can be easy to panic. Don’t let fear make the final decision for you!
Get the care and support you deserve at Southside Women’s Services! We offer free pregnancy services and resources in a safe place so you can explore your pregnancy options and share what’s on your mind.

Give us a call at 708-229-0092 or schedule your free appointment today. All services are confidential and free of charge!
Please be aware that Southside Women’s Services does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources
- Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (2023, January 24). Mifeprex (Mifepristone). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifeprex-mifepristone-information
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, September 3). Slide Show: Fetal Ultrasound. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/multimedia/fetal-ultrasound/sls-20076294?s=3#