Pre-Provisioned Abortion Pills vs. Emergency Contraception: What’s the Difference and When to Use Each?
We talk about “stocking up” - but it seems like there’s some confusion on what you should actually have. And when it comes to reproductive healthcare, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. We’re recommending getting both pre-provisioned abortion pills and emergency contraception like Plan B or Ella if you’re able - but they serve very different purposes. Let’s break down how they work, when to use them, and where you can get them.
What Are Pre-Provisioned Abortion Pills?
Pre-provisioning abortion pills means having a medication abortion regimen (mifepristone and misoprostol) in advance, just in case you need them. This can be a proactive way to ensure you have access to abortion care, especially in areas where restrictions might make it difficult to obtain them when needed.
How Do They Work?
Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone needed for pregnancy to continue.
Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.
Taken together, they are over 95% effective in ending a pregnancy up to 10-12 weeks.
When Should You Use Them?
If you have confirmed a pregnancy and have decided to end it.
If you live in an area where abortion access is limited and want to ensure you have the medication available when needed.
If you want to avoid delays in seeking care due to legal restrictions or logistical barriers.
Where Can You Get Them?
Telemedicine Services: Organizations like Aid Access, Carafem, and Plan C help people access abortion pills online.
Clinics & Providers: Some clinics provide advance provision of abortion pills.
Community Support Networks: Some advocacy groups provide information on obtaining pills safely.
Cost?
Between $150-350 for preprovisioned pills.
What Is Emergency Contraception (Plan B & Ella)?
Emergency contraception (EC) prevents pregnancy before it starts, rather than ending an existing pregnancy. It is used after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (like a condom breaking or missing a birth control pill).
Types of Emergency Contraception:
Plan B (Levonorgestrel): Available over the counter, works best within 72 hours.
Ella (Ulipristal Acetate): Prescription-only, effective up to 5 days after sex.
Copper IUD (Paragard): The most effective form of EC, can be inserted up to 5 days after unprotected sex and provides ongoing contraception.
When Should You Use Them?
If you had unprotected sex or experienced contraceptive failure.
If you do not want to risk pregnancy but are not ready to take abortion pills.
If you need immediate action but are unsure if you are pregnant.
Where Can You Get Them?
Plan B: Available at most pharmacies, no prescription needed.
Ella: Requires a prescription, but available online via telemedicine.
Copper IUD: Requires insertion by a healthcare provider at a clinic.
Cost?
Plan B: generic versions as cheap at $6 (can be found at Costco), brand name up to $50
Ella: varies on insurance coverage
Key Differences at a Glance: comparing and contrasting your options
Final Thoughts: Which One Do You Need?
If you are not yet pregnant but want to prevent pregnancy, emergency contraception is your best bet.
If you are already pregnant and need to terminate, abortion pills are the option for you for use now.
If you are not yet pregnant but want to have medication abortion available if needed, you may be able to get pre-provisioned abortion pills to have on hand.
