Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about our medication abortion services
About Roxy Clinic
How does the consultation process work?
First, you complete your online intake. Then, our licensed healthcare providers review your medical questionnaire and health history and approve your request for abortion pills. Then you will receive your medication in the mail and follow the enclosed directions.
What states do you mail pills to?
We serve Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, and Washington DC. Each patient is seen by a board-certified licensed provider in the state they live in.
How much is it? What if I have no money?
The asking price is $150. We offer a sliding scale or discount for people who cannot afford the cost of the service. You can indicate this on our standard patient intake—there is no separate application process.
How long does delivery take?
Once your consultation is reviewed and approved, medications are typically shipped within 24-48 hours via the US Postal Service. You'll receive tracking information and can expect delivery between 1-5 days in most areas.
Is my information kept private?
Yes, we take your privacy very seriously and keep everything on a secure, encrypted, HIPAA compliant server. We do not share your records with anyone unless you specifically ask us to. All shipping is in unmarked, plain containers.
Do you provide ongoing support?
Yes, our healthcare team provides live support throughout your care. You can contact us anytime with questions or concerns, and we offer follow-up consultations as needed.
Can I get abortion pills even if I'm not pregnant?
Yes, clinicians offer abortion pills 'just in case' you do get pregnant. These are sometimes called 'advance provision' or 'pills for future use.' Financial assistance is limited for this service.
Do you serve minors?
We serve minors in most of our states, but there are some states with differences in age requirements. The best way to check is to visit our Get Started page, where you'll start by entering your age and state so we can tell you right away if we can help you!
Do you accept insurance or Medicaid?
We do not accept insurance or Medicaid. If you are in a situation where you can't afford your care, please indicate this on your intake forms and we will work with you on a sliding scale payment option.
Where do the pills get sent from?
The pills are either dispensed by us, or sent from our partner pharmacy, Honeybee Health at 3515 Helms Ave, Culver City, CA.
About Medication Abortion
What medications do you provide?
We provide FDA-approved abortion pills including mifepristone (brand name Mifeprex) and misoprostol (brand name Cytotec) for medical abortion and miscarriage management. These medications are safe and effective for ending early pregnancy.
How do the abortion pills work?
Mifepristone stops the pregnancy from growing by blocking the pregnancy hormone (progesterone). Misoprostol makes the uterus contract and push out the pregnancy just like a natural miscarriage.
How effective are abortion pills?
The combination of mifepristone and misoprostol has been shown to be 95-98% effective at ending a pregnancy, depending on various factors including how far along the pregnancy is.
Are abortion pills safe?
Yes, they are very safe — safer than Tylenol and safer than driving in a car! Medication abortion has been used safely in the U.S. for over 20 years. The risk of severe, life-threatening complications requiring hospitalization is less than 1%.
How far in pregnancy can I use abortion pills?
We help people access pills through 13 weeks and 2 days of pregnancy. The medications are most effective when used in the first 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Will the abortion pills affect my ability to get pregnant in the future?
No, abortion pills do not affect your future fertility. You can still get pregnant again. In fact, you can get pregnant as soon as 1 week after your abortion.
What is an ectopic pregnancy and how would I know if I had one?
An ectopic pregnancy is when the pregnancy is growing outside the uterus. You might experience severe abdominal pain (especially on one side), dizziness, or shoulder pain. Contact a healthcare provider immediately if you experience these symptoms.
Will the pills work if I have an ectopic pregnancy?
No, abortion pills only work for pregnancies in the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy requires different medical treatment and can be life-threatening if not treated. If you think you might have an ectopic pregnancy, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
Can I use abortion pills if I have an IUD in place?
The IUD must be removed before using abortion pills. You can remove it yourself or have it removed by a healthcare provider. The medications won't work properly with the IUD still in place.
Preparing and Getting Ready
Do I need an ultrasound first?
No, you do not need an ultrasound to have a medication abortion. Based on the date of your last period and your symptoms, our clinicians can determine if you are eligible for medication abortion.
How do I know how far along I am in pregnancy?
You count from the first day of your last menstrual period. For example, if your last period started 7 weeks ago, you are 7 weeks pregnant. Our clinicians will help you calculate this during your consultation.
What should I prepare before taking the pills?
Plan to be at home or in a comfortable, safe place. Have ibuprofen or other pain relievers on hand, as well as maxi pads. You might want a heating pad for cramps and access to a bathroom. Having someone you trust nearby for support can be helpful but isn't required.
I have an Rh negative blood type. Will I need Rhogam if I am less than 12 weeks when I take the abortion pills?
No. According to ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists), Rhogam is not necessary for medication abortions before 12 weeks of pregnancy.
Taking the Pills
How do I take the abortion pills?
First, take the mifepristone pill by mouth. Then, 24-48 hours later, place the misoprostol tablets under your tongue or between your cheek and gum for 30 minutes, then swallow what's left. Detailed instructions will come with your medication.
When should I take the misoprostol?
Take the misoprostol 24-48 hours after taking mifepristone. Choose a time when you can be at home and comfortable. Many people choose to take it in the evening so they can rest overnight.
Can I take pain medication with the abortion pills?
Yes! Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) works best for cramping. Take it before the misoprostol and continue as needed. Avoid aspirin as it can increase bleeding. You can also use acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain and fever.
What if I vomit after taking the pills?
If you vomit within 30 minutes of taking mifepristone, contact us - you may need to take another dose. For misoprostol taken under the tongue, vomiting isn't usually a problem since the medication is absorbed through your mouth tissues.
The First Hours and Days
What will I feel during the abortion?
You'll likely experience cramping (similar to or stronger than period cramps) and bleeding. You may also have nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chills, or fever. These are normal side effects and usually last for a few hours to a day.
How much will I bleed?
Bleeding is usually heavier than a normal period and may include blood clots. The heaviest bleeding typically happens 2-5 hours after taking misoprostol and lasts for a few hours. Light bleeding or spotting can continue for 2-4 weeks.
Will I see the pregnancy tissue?
You may see blood clots or tissue, which can range from small to a few inches. At early gestations (under 9 weeks), the pregnancy tissue is usually difficult to identify among the blood clots. This is normal and expected.
How long does the abortion process take?
The heaviest cramping and bleeding usually happens 2-5 hours after taking misoprostol and lasts for a few hours. Most people complete the abortion within 4-5 hours, but light bleeding can continue for several weeks.
What are signs of a complication?
Contact a healthcare provider if you soak through 2 or more maxi pads per hour for 2 hours in a row, have severe pain not relieved by medication, have a fever above 100.4°F lasting more than 24 hours, or feel very weak, dizzy, or sick.
The First Few Weeks
When will I get my period again?
Most people get their period 4-8 weeks after the abortion. Your first period may be lighter or heavier than usual.
When can I have sex again?
You can have sex as soon as you feel ready. However, you can get pregnant again right away, so use birth control if you don't want to become pregnant.
How do I know the abortion worked?
Decreasing pregnancy symptoms, lighter bleeding over time, and a negative pregnancy test 3-4 weeks after the abortion are good signs. If you're concerned, contact your healthcare provider.
Will I still have pregnancy symptoms?
Pregnancy hormones can take a few weeks to leave your body, so you may still have some pregnancy symptoms for a while. If symptoms persist or you're concerned, take a pregnancy test 3-4 weeks after the abortion or contact your healthcare provider.
Is this legal in my state?
Yes. Roxy Clinic operates legally in all states we serve. Each patient is seen by a board-certified licensed provider in the state they live in. If you have legal questions or concerns, we recommend contacting the Repro Legal Helpline.