FAQs

What is self-managed abortion?

Self-managed abortion is an abortion performed outside of a regulated or medical setting. It encompasses a range of methods, some more effective or safe than others.

What is the abortion pill?

The abortion pill is actually two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol taken together to terminate a pregnancy. It was approved by the FDA in 2000 for use for up to 10 weeks and is currently used across the country in clinics. Medication abortion accounted for 54% of all abortions in the United States in 2020. It is different from Plan B (morning after pill) although this is a common misconception.

Is the abortion pill safe?

The abortion pill (along with abortion itself) is an incredibly safe medical regimen. Serious complications arise in less than 0.4% of patients. It has fewer adverse health outcomes than Tylenol and erectile dysfunction medication.

What does self-managing an abortion with abortion pills look like?

Each self-managed abortion experience is unique. Typically, a self-managed abortion using mifepristone and misoprostol (sometimes misoprostol alone) means that someone is accessing abortion pills from somewhere other than a clinic or provider. This could mean purchasing from an online pharmacy, accessing them in another country where they are less restricted, or receiving assistance from international organizations that provide telehealth. After that, the pregnant person will terminate the pregnancy similarly to if they had gotten the medication from a clinic.

Is self-managed abortion legal?

What we know is that people have been prosecuted and even jailed for terminating their pregnancies on their own. The legal risks depend greatly on a person’s location, race, gender, sexual orientation, and class. Communities that are already over-policed face greater risks. The criminalization of self-managed abortion is a grave injustice that hurts communities and exacerbates systemic inequalities.

Where can I watch the film?

The film is available through Good Docs for educational screenings. Visit “Host A Screening” to learn more. You can also contact “contact@abortionaddtocart.com” for more information.

What organizations are featured in the film?

Abortion: Add to Cart features individuals from various organizations including Plan C, Aid Access, DKT International, Women’s Health Center of West Virginia, Planned Parenthood, If/When/How, We Testify, and Physicians for Reproductive Health.