Medication Abortion
Medication abortion (abortion pill) is a safe, effective option for ending an early pregnancy using two medications. The process is straightforward and takes place over 1 to 2 days, with a clinician available to support you throughout. Tapestry provides this care with complete confidentiality and respect for your decision.
Call your preferred Health Clinic with any age-related questions or additional support.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Anyone up to 11 weeks pregnant who wants to end a pregnancy using medication. You don’t need a referral; just call to schedule.
During the first 11 weeks of pregnancy, you have two options: medication abortion, which takes place at home, or an in-clinic abortion procedure.
If beyond 11 weeks or have additional questions, call Tapestry to discuss with a counselor your options and to get information about where local procedural abortions are accessible.
Call your nearest Tapestry Health Clinic. Appointments are typically available within days.
A photo ID is required.
If you have insurance, bring your card, but coverage questions can also be handled when you call.
A Tapestry provider is always available through our answering service if you have complications or questions, including after hours and on weekends.
Call a Tapestry clinic immediately if you experience any of the following:
Heavy bleeding: soaking 2 maxi pads in 2 hours
Abdominal pain, weakness, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea with or without fever, more than 24 hours after taking misoprostol
A fever of 100.4°F or higher lasting more than 4 hours within several days of taking the first medication.
Not sure if you’re eligible?
Enter the first day of your last period into the LMP Calculator to see your options.
Please note that this calculator is for informational use only; the best way to accurately date your pregnancy is to see a trained medical provider.
If you are more than 11 weeks pregnant, Tapestry can refer you to a provider who offers in-clinic abortion procedures, or you can visit ineedana.com to find a health center near you.
MassHealth Standard covers the full cost of abortion care, and many people who qualify for MassHealth while pregnant might not otherwise qualify.
If you need help paying for an abortion, are uninsured or underinsured, Tapestry can help contact you with an organization that can provide support.
Many insurance plans cover the cost of abortions, but not all.
Insurance referrals and copays can also vary. It is very helpful to provide your insurance information during scheduling so we can check your coverage as quickly as possible. It may take up to 2 business days to verify.
Unlike other clinics, there are no hidden fees or additional charges. Payment is due at your appointment.
LMP Calculator
This calculator is for informational use only. The best way to accurately date your pregnancy is by seeing a trained medical provider.
Understanding Your Appointment
You will complete a phone screening with a staff member to ensure you are eligible for this care. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early to fill out paperwork.
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID and your insurance card if you have one. If you don’t have a photo ID, let us know as soon as possible, and we can help find a solution.
You can come alone and drive yourself home. You’re welcome to bring someone for support; they’ll need to present a government-issued photo ID and comply with clinic policies.
During your first visit, we’ll confirm the date of your pregnancy, go over the medication abortion process, answer any questions, and offer non-judgmental and confidential support to help make your experience as comfortable as possible.
Some patients may need to complete an ultrasound at the beginning of their visit – this depends on the phone screening. Ultrasounds are only completed for safety reasons, and you have the power to know as much or as little about your ultrasound or pregnancy as you want.
Patients will meet with a counselor to review what to expect and how to take the medications. Your provider will give you your medications to take home and complete the medication abortion.
If you do not want to become pregnant again soon, our staff can help you choose a birth control method and discuss when to start the method you choose. Some birth control methods can be started at your abortion appointment.
The second medication, misoprostol, is taken at home 12-48 hours later (these pills are usually placed between your cheek and gum for 30 minutes or placed in the vagina).
Misoprostol causes cramping and bleeding, which empties the uterus and helps pass the pregnancy through the vagina.
The cramping and bleeding can be intense and last up to 12 hours, so we recommend planning ahead to make sure you will be somewhere safe where you have access to a bathroom and will be able to rest.
For most people, the process takes around 5 hours, but for some, it can take up to 12 hours.
It’s normal to have cramping and bleeding and to pass clots and tissue, like a heavy period. You may also have an upset stomach, diarrhea, dizziness, and a mild fever.
In-Person Care at Tapestry Health
Sexual Health Clinics offer the full range of care, including contraception, STI treatment, and annual exams.