Plan B and the abortion pill are two of the most commonly confused drugs in reproductive health conversations. They sound similar, they are both taken orally, and both are connected to pregnancy disruption. However, they work through different mechanisms and are used at different points in time. Confusing the two can lead to misunderstandings about how each drug works and when it is used.
Understanding the distinction is important before making any decisions about your health. Explore our FAQs for more information about the abortion pill and find care near you.
What Plan B Does
Plan B, commonly called the morning-after pill, is considered an emergency contraceptive. It contains levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone that delays ovulation. When taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, it reduces the likelihood that fertilization will occur.
In December 2022, the FDA updated the Plan B label to state there is insufficient evidence to support the claim that it prevents implantation of an embryo.
If a pregnancy has already been established, Plan B will have no effect on it.
Plan B is available over the counter without a prescription. Common side effects include nausea, headache, fatigue, irregular bleeding, and lower abdominal cramping.
What the Abortion Pill Does
The abortion pill is not a single drug. It is a two-drug regimen used to end an existing pregnancy. The first drug, mifepristone, blocks progesterone, the hormone that supports early pregnancy, causing the uterine lining to break down. The second drug, misoprostol, is taken one to two days later and causes the uterus to contract and expel the embryo or fetus through abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding.
The abortion pill is FDA-approved through ten weeks of gestation, though state laws may limit access earlier than that window. Use of the abortion pill generally involves confirming the gestational age and pregnancy location, as it cannot treat an ectopic pregnancy and carries serious health risks if used without that information.
Unlike Plan B, the abortion pill is only relevant after a pregnancy has been confirmed. It is not an emergency contraceptive and cannot prevent pregnancy from occurring.
A Side-by-Side Comparison
- Purpose: Plan B prevents pregnancy. The abortion pill ends an existing pregnancy.
- Timing: Plan B is taken shortly after unprotected sex, before pregnancy is established. The abortion pill is taken after a pregnancy has been confirmed.
- Mechanism: Plan B delays ovulation. The abortion pill blocks progesterone and induces uterine contractions.
- Availability: Plan B is available over the counter. The abortion pill requires a prescription and provider involvement.
- Effect on existing pregnancy: Plan B has no effect according to the FDA’s 2022 drug label. The abortion pill ends and expels a developing pregnancy.
Before Anything Else
Understanding what each of these drugs actually does, and does not do, matters. If you are navigating an unexpected situation, you deserve clear answers and compassionate support to help you find your footing.
For accurate information, educational resources, and guidance on finding care, visit our resources page or find care near you.