Do I Need to Be 18 to Order the Abortion Pill?

Deciding what to do when facing an unintended pregnancy can be incredibly challenging at any age, and this choice can be especially hard for young women.

If you’re a minor making a choice about what to do with a potential pregnancy, you probably have a lot of questions. The good news is, you’re in the right place! Liberty Women’s Clinic exists to support women just like you.

We’re passionate about providing answers to important questions, giving you access to quality, affordable healthcare and other resources, and making sure you feel empowered and confident as you make this big decision. 

Today, we’re discussing the option of the abortion pill. We’ll be going over what it is, what to expect, and how to access affordable pre-abortion services as a minor.  

What is the abortion pill?

The abortion pill, unlike surgical abortion, uses medication to end a pregnancy within the first 10 weeks of gestation. While it’s called the abortion “pill,” the process of a medical abortion actually utilizes two pills, Mifepristone and Misoprostol.

Mifepristone is used to end the pregnancy by stopping the body from producing the natural hormone, progesterone. Progesterone provides the pregnancy with support and nutrients, and without it, the pregnancy cannot survive. After the pregnancy has been ended, Misoprostol is taken to cause contractions, which will push the fetal tissue from the womb. 

This is typically a 24-48 hour process and is similar to an early miscarriage. Those taking the abortion pill should be prepared for cramping, bleeding, and pain as the body passes the pregnancy in the form of large blood clots. 

Do I have to be 18 to order the abortion pill?

Access to abortion as a minor (someone under the age of 18) varies from state to state. As outlined in the Missouri Minor Consent Laws, in the state of Missouri, minors seeking abortions must have parental consent. 

The thought of telling your parents you’re pregnant may seem overwhelming and might even be the reason you’re seeking abortion in the first place. However, it’s likely unavoidable regardless of which pregnancy option you choose. Telling them might even give you a strong sense of relief and provide more clarity as you make this choice. Our staff can help you with how to have this difficult conversation.

What are the side effects of the abortion pill?

The following are typical side effects of the abortion pill: 

• Abdominal pain 
• Bleeding
• Vomiting 
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Nausea

Is the abortion pill associated with any serious health risks?

Yes. Scientific studies have linked the abortion pill to the following risks and it’s important to speak with a medical professional prior to terminating your pregnancy. Please note, Liberty Women’s Clinic does not refer for or perform abortions, nor do we offer the abortion pill: 

• Incomplete abortions may lead to fatal infections and hemorrhaging (excessive bleeding)
• Long-term mental health issues triggered by the abortion¹
• An increased chance of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in the case of untreated Chlamydia infections²

Long-term fertility issues³

Where can I find help if I’m under the age of 18? 

Here at Liberty Women’s Clinic, we believe women of all ages facing unintended pregnancies have the right to quality healthcare on a no-cost, confidential basis. 

We offer free pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasounds, and STI testing, as well as counseling services so you can learn more about the resources and options available to you during this time. All of our services begin with a free nurse consultation, which you can schedule with us today. We’re here for you!

*model is a stock photo

1. Broen AN, Moum T, Bødtker AS, Ekeberg O. The course of mental health after miscarriage and induced abortion: a longitudinal, fiveyear follow-up study. BMC Med. 2005;3:18.
2. Westergaard L, Phillipsen T, Scheibel J (1982). “Significance of cervical Chlamydia trachomatis infection in postabortal pelvic inflammatory disease.” Obstetrics and Gynecology, 68(5): 668-90; Ovigstad E, et al. (1983). “Pelvic inflammatory disease associated with Chlamydia trachomatis infection after therapeutic abortion.” Br J Vener Dis, 59: 189-92; Heisterberg L, et al. (1987). “The role of vaginal secretory immunoglobulin a, gardnerella vaginalis, anaerobes, and Chlamydia trachomatis in post abortal pelvic inflammatory disease.” Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 66(2): 99-102.

Bhattacharya, S. et al. Reproductive outcomes following induced abortion: a national register-based cohort study in Scotland. BMJ Open. 2, (2012).

*model is stock photo

This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional counseling and/or medical advice.