Medical Abortion

Desert Star Institute for Family Planning

Gynecologist & Family Planning located in Phoenix, AZ

If you have an unwanted pregnancy, you can explore your options with DeShawn Taylor, MD, MSc, FACOG, at Desert Star Institute for Family Planning, in Phoenix.

Dr. Taylor offers a full range of family planning services, including abortion, in a safe and judgment-free environment. She can answer your questions so you can make the best choice for your needs.

Call Desert Star Institute for Family Planning Monday - Friday 9am - 12pm & 1pm - 4pm.

480-447-8857

Medical Abortion Q & A

What is a medical abortion?

A medical abortion, sometimes called the abortion pill, uses two medications — Mifepristone and Misoprostol — this is a safe and effective way to end an early pregnancy.

Mifepristone blocks your progesterone production. Progesterone is a hormone that allows a pregnancy to develop. Without it, the pregnancy detaches from the uterine wall.

Misoprostol triggers an evacuation of your uterus, creating a process similar to a miscarriage.

When can I have an Medical abortion?

Desert Star Institute for Family Planning provides medical abortions up to 11.0 weeks of pregnancy. You can request an abortion as soon as you miss your menstrual period.

Arizona state law allows you to have a same day abortion.

If you’re under the age of 18, your parent or guardian needs a notarized Parental Consent form for a minor.

If you are not able to get parent or guardian consent your must get permission from a Superior Court Judge in a process called Judicial Bypass.

What happens during a medical abortion?

Abortion by Pill is a 3-Part Process.

Visit 1 - Day 1: The first medications Mifeprex and an Antibiotic are taken in office. Some patients report a little nausea after taking Mifeprex, but most women don't report any side effects at all. The antibiotic is to prevent any infections.
Day 2 at Home: After 24 - 72 hours, You will place 4 tablets of the second medication, Misoprostol, between your cheeks and gum.
- You should make sure that you’re in a comfortable environment when you take these pills. You should start to experience bleeding and cramping within four hours of taking misoprostol at home.
- You may pass large blood clots as the process is much like having a miscarriage. Some patients describe the sensation as similar to an extremely heavy and painful period.
- You may be tired for a day or two after your medical abortion. You may also experience spotting and cramping for a few weeks.
Visit 3: 2 - 3 weeks after you take the abortion pills you will return to the clinic to confirm the abortion was complete.

Call Desert Star Institute for Family Planning if you don’t have any bleeding within 24 hours of taking the misoprostol. Similarly, if you continue to bleed heavily or don’t start to feel better within a day or two, contact Dr. Taylor

Is a medical abortion the same thing as an emergency contraceptive pill?

Emergency contraception like PlanB® is entirely different than a medical abortion. You use emergency contraception as soon as possible after having unprotected sex.

The medication works like a birth control pill to prevent pregnancy with the hormone progestin. Emergency contraception doesn’t cause an abortion.

We offer Emergency Contraceptions like PlanB® at no cost and no appointment needed.

Medical Abortion Fee Schedule

up to 11 weeks: $740.00

If you are considering an abortion, call Desert Star Institute for Family Planning to make an appointment.

Need Help Covering the Cost of Your Abortion?

If you need assistance paying for your abortion care, we encourage you to contact one of the funding organizations listed below. These groups may be able to help with financial support.

Please contact them at least 24 hours before your appointment and let them know that your appointment is scheduled with: DESERT STAR INSTITUTE FOR FAMILY PLANNING