I'm four weeks pregnant. Can I take the morning-after pill?

Someone asked us: I am a little over 4 weeks pregnant. What can I do? Will the “day after pill” work or do I need to get a medical abortion?

You’ve come to the right place. Unfortunately, the morning-after pill won’t work if you’re already pregnant. The morning-after pill — also called emergency contraception (EC) — only helps prevent pregnancy before it happens. 

Medication abortion (also known as the abortion pill) ends a pregnancy that already exists. Here's more info on the difference between emergency contraception and abortion pills.

If you need an abortion, start by checking the abortion laws in your state. If abortion is banned (illegal) in your state you may need to go to an abortion provider in another state where abortion is legal. You can find a trustworthy abortion provider at AbortionFinder.org or through your nearest Planned Parenthood health center. A trustworthy abortion provider will support you in deciding if the abortion pill is right for you and guide you through the process. 

We understand that this can be a challenging time for getting abortion care, and we’re here to provide the support you need, no matter what. You can call us now at 1-800-230-PLAN.