If you are looking for information about Plan B, the abortion pill, abortion clinic procedures, and what your pregnancy options are right now – Care Net of Missoula can help. Start with free onsite pregnancy testing and then an ultrasound to obtain proof of pregnancy and verify how far along you are. What is Plan B? Is the abortion pill an emergency contraceptive?  Plan B, also known as the morning-after pill, is used as an emergency contraceptive designed to prevent pregnancy after contraceptive failure or to prevent an unintended pregnancy. It is not the same as the abortion pill or a medication abortion. Plan B should not be taken if you may already be pregnant. If you are experiencing pregnancy symptoms, contact Care Net of Missoula to learn more about the confidential and cost-free pregnancy services we provide.  How does Plan B work? Plan B morning-after pills are designed to prevent pregnancy before it occurs by delaying or inhibiting ovulation. It contains a high dose of levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone that controls the release of an egg from the ovary or slows it long enough to prevent fertilization. If fertilization has already occurred, Plan B may prevent the fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus, ending the pregnancy post-conception.  Plan B's ability to prevent a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus is a topic of ongoing debate. Some medical professionals argue that this may constitute a miscarriage, while others maintain that pregnancy does not begin until implantation; therefore, Plan B is labeled a form of contraception rather than an abortion pill. It is essential to discuss any questions or concerns regarding Plan B and its mechanisms of action with your healthcare provider before taking Plan B or any emergency contraception. Please note that while we provide information on emergency contraceptives and can answer any questions about how morning-after pills and abortion pills work, we do not provide or refer for contraceptives or abortion services. Care Net of Missoula believes that women deserve to learn about their cycle, their options, and the resources available to them without cost or pressure involved.  Is Plan B legal in every state? What else do I need to know? Yes. There are no legal restrictions on any emergency contraceptives or morning-after pills. However, with any medication, talking to a health professional about potential risks and side effects is important.  Plan B should not be taken if you have certain health conditions, have any allergies to the medications used, or are already pregnant. Certain medications can decrease the effectiveness of morning-after pills. Women with larger bodies need to know that Plan B may be less effective as an emergency contraception. Studies suggest that Plan B may not work for women who weigh 165 pounds to 176 pounds. It’s even less effective in women who weigh over 176 pounds — especially those with a body mass index (BMI) at or above 30. What if my period is late? If you have a missed or late period or have already had a positive home pregnancy test, it is too late to take an emergency contraceptive such as Plan B or ella®. The next step would be to confirm if your pregnancy is viable and rule out an ectopic pregnancy or a natural miscarriage. Abortion pills do not work if the pregnancy is outside of the uterus. Conception calculators can only estimate gestational age based on your last menstrual period. Contact us for free pregnancy testing and an ultrasound to find out how far along you are and the options available to you. ​ Be empowered to make an informed choice. All our pregnancy services are offered at no cost to you. Give us a call and talk with a licensed medical professional today. References:   Morning-after pill . (n.d.). Drugs.com .  https://www.drugs.com/plan-b.html . American Pregnancy Association. (2023, July 3). American Pregnancy Association - Promoting Pregnancy Wellness . https://americanpregnancy.org/unplanned-pregnancy/abortion-pill/ Morning-after pill - Mayo Clinic . (2022, June 3). https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/morning-after-pill/about/pac-20394730 . Cleland, K., Raymond, E. G., Westley, E., & Trussell, J. (2014b). Emergency contraception review. Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology , 57 (4), 741–750. https://doi.org/10.1097/grf.0000000000000056

Abortion is a deeply personal and often complex decision. If you're considering this option, it's essential to have accurate medical information and caring support to make the best decision for your health and future. At CareNet of Missoula,  we offer no-cost ultrasounds, consultations, and support so you can learn about your pregnancy and understand all your options without pressure. In this article, we’ll walk through the possible complications of both chemical and surgical abortion procedures, as well as the emotional impact some women experience afterward. Why an Ultrasound Matters First Before making a decision, it's important to confirm the location and gestational age of your pregnancy. This can only be accurately determined by an  ultrasound. At our center, we provide free ultrasounds for all pregnant women. This important step helps you and your healthcare provider determine which procedures may be available—and what risks may be associated with each. Complications of Chemical Abortion (The Abortion Pill) A chemical abortion, often referred to as the abortion pill, involves two medications: mifepristone (Mifeprex) and misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, and misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy. According to the FDA’s label for Mifeprex, possible complications include: Heavy bleeding Infection or sepsis Uterine rupture Complications from ectopic pregnancy In rare cases, death Clinical trials reported that serious adverse events occur in fewer than 0.5% of women. However, a 2023 analysis of over 154,000 chemical abortions found that 11.2% resulted in serious complications —suggesting the need for more transparency and awareness. If you’ve taken the first pill and are unsure about continuing, Abortion Pill Reversal (APR) may be possible. This involves progesterone therapy and has a 64–68% success rate when started promptly. For immediate support, call the 24/7 APR Hotline at 1-877-558-0333. Complications of Surgical Abortion (Dilation and Evacuation - D&E) Surgical abortion, specifically Dilation and Evacuation (D&E), is generally performed during the second trimester and involves dilating the cervix and removing the fetus from the uterus. Risks associated with surgical abortion may include: Cervical injury Heavy bleeding Infection Incomplete removal of pregnancy tissue Uterine rupture or perforation Although many women undergo surgical abortion without immediate complications, the risk can increase  with gestational age and previous abortions. A comprehensive review by the National Library of Medicine  found that multiple D&E procedures may raise the risk of very pre-term birth (before 28 weeks) in future pregnancies. Emotional Effects After Abortion In addition to physical health risks, some women experience emotional side effects  following abortion. Feelings such as grief, sadness, regret, loss and depression can arise—sometimes immediately, and sometimes much later. At CareNet of Missoula, we offer post-abortion emotional support and counseling at no cost. You don’t have to carry these feelings alone—healing is possible, and help is available. We’re Here for You Making a decision about abortion can be difficult, especially when you're overwhelmed by conflicting information. At CareNet of Missoula, we provide free, confidential support so you can explore your options in a safe, judgment-free space. Give us a call and talk with a licensed medical professional today.

If you're facing an unintended pregnancy and considering your options, you may be wondering: How much does the abortion pill cost? The cost of the abortion pill (also called a medication abortion) can vary depending on your location, the provider you choose, and whether or not you have insurance coverage. On average, it can cost up to $800, though in some cases it may be more or less. Before making any decisions, it’s important to gather accurate information about the process, potential risks, and available support. At CareNet of Missoula, you can meet with a licensed medical professional to talk through your options in a safe and confidential environment—at no cost to you. What Is the Abortion Pill? The term “abortion pill” actually refers to a two-step medication process used in early pregnancy: Step 1: Mifepristone Mifepristone works by blocking progesterone, a hormone needed to maintain pregnancy. Without progesterone, the pregnancy cannot continue. It typically takes up to 48 hours for this medication to take effect. If you’ve taken Mifepristone and are having second thoughts, you may be able to pursue Abortion Pill Reversal. This treatment involves taking progesterone to try to counteract the effects of mifepristone. According to studies, reversal has a 64-68% success rate , with no known increase in birth defects .  If you’re seeking help right away, call the 24/7 hotline at 1-877-558-0333 to speak with someone who can guide you. You can also visit:   https://www.abortionpillreversal.com/ Step 2: Misoprostol After mifepristone, a second medication called misoprostol is taken, usually within 24–48 hours.   Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy. This stage often involves:  Heavy bleeding  Blood clots Cramping Tissue passing (sometimes described as “lemon-sized”) Side effects may include chills, fever, nausea, or vomiting. If symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or fever persist beyond 24 hours after taking misoprostol, it’s important to contact a medical provider. Are There Free Resources for Me? Yes—there are completely free services and resources available if you are pregnant and unsure of your next steps. At CareNet of Missoula, all of our services are provided at no cost and include: Pregnancy testing Limited obstetric ultrasounds Education on your reproductive options Support resources for new or expectant parents Referrals for healthcare, housing, food, and more  Give us a call and talk with a licensed medical professional today. Our licensed medical professionals will confirm your pregnancy and walk with you through your options with compassion and respect. You are not alone, and you don’t have to navigate this decision without support. So, What’s the Bottom Line? The abortion pill can cost up to $800, depending on where you go and whether insurance is involved. But financial cost isn’t the only factor to consider. Knowing what to expect, understanding your choices, and having caring support can make a huge difference.  We’re here to offer medically accurate information, confidential care, and emotional support—at no cost to you.

If you’ve recently found out you're pregnant while taking Ozempic, you’re not alone. Some women have reported unintended pregnancies while using the medication—leading to the nickname Ozempic babies . First, take a deep breath. Then, talk to your doctor and consider scheduling a visit with us . At our clinic, we provide educational support to women facing unintended pregnancies, including those involving medications like Ozempic. We’re here to offer clarity and support throughout your pregnancy and into motherhood.  Important: If you are currently pregnant or planning a pregnancy, always consult your doctor before starting or continuing any medication. What Is Ozempic? Ozempic  is the brand name for semaglutide, a prescription drug that helps regulate blood sugar and support weight loss. It was approved by the FDA  in 2017 for managing type 2 diabetes, and has since gained popularity due to its weight-loss effects. Despite its benefits, Ozempic comes with risks. The FDA warns against using it during pregnancy  and states that it may cause thyroid C-cell tumors in animal studies. It’s also not considered a first-line treatment for blood sugar issues. If you’re pregnant, doctors typically recommend discontinuing the medication right away. How Does Ozempic Affect Fertility and Pregnancy? Many women on Ozempic have experienced unintended pregnancies, giving rise to the idea of Ozempic babies . While it’s not clear whether the medication itself directly increases fertility, it does help regulate menstrual cycles by addressing underlying health issues like obesity . It may also impact the effectiveness of birth control due to its effect on digestion.  In short, some women may become more fertile  while on Ozempic, even if they weren’t trying to conceive. What If I Was Taking Ozempic When I Found Out I Was Pregnant? The good news is that recent observational data (2024) suggests that stopping Ozempic promptly after discovering a pregnancy does not significantly increase the risk of major birth defects. This is reassuring, especially for women who had no idea they were pregnant while taking the medication.   Still, it's best to speak with a healthcare provider right away if this applies to you. Can I Manage My Blood Sugar Without Ozempic During Pregnancy? Yes, there are several other safe options for managing blood sugar during pregnancy. Insulin is commonly prescribed and does not cross the placenta . Metformin is another widely used medication that many doctors consider during pregnancy. Weight loss during pregnancy is not usually recommended.  In fact, significant weight loss while pregnant can lead to health risks for your baby, including low birth weight. Your healthcare team can help you find a balance between managing your health and protecting your baby. What Are the Risks of Taking Ozempic During Pregnancy? Medical experts and regulatory agencies agree: Ozempic should not be used during pregnancy . The FDA classifies Ozempic as a Category C drug, meaning animal studies have shown potential harm to unborn babies. While human data is limited, the precautionary recommendation is to avoid it.  If you have questions about any medications during pregnancy, your doctor is your best resource. Our clinic also provides educational support and resources to help guide you through your journey.  Give us a call and talk with a licensed medical professional today.

It’s a surprising idea—but yes, being pregnant with twins can sometimes cause a false negative result on a urine pregnancy test. This rare situation is linked to something called the hook effect,  which can happen when hormone levels are extremely high. Pregnancy tests  are typically very accurate. However, when hCG levels exceed 500,000 mIU/mL, it can overwhelm the test, preventing it from detecting the hormone properly. This is more likely to happen in multiple pregnancies—especially if each baby has their own placenta, which can compound hormone levels. If you’ve missed multiple periods, have pregnancy symptoms, or underwent fertility treatments like IVF—but your urine test is still negative—it’s a good idea to follow up with a blood test for confirmation. How Do Pregnancy Tests Work? Pregnancy tests detect the presence of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) , a hormone that rises rapidly during early pregnancy. A nonpregnant woman typically has about 5 mIU/mL of hCG, while pregnancy tests generally detect levels of 20 mIU/mL or higher. Here’s how it works: the test contains antibodies that bind to hCG. If the hormone is present at a detectable level, the test will show a positive result. However, in rare cases—like very high hCG concentrations—the test becomes overwhelmed and fails to register correctly. This is the hook effect. hCG Levels by Week of Pregnancy Here’s a  general guideline  of hCG levels during pregnancy:  Week 3: 5–50 mIU/mL  Week 4: 5–426 mIU/mL  Week 5: 18–7,340 mIU/mL  Week 6: 1,080–56,500 mIU/mL  Weeks 7–8: 7,650–229,000 mIU/mL  Weeks 9–12: 25,700–288,000 mIU/mL  Hook effect range: >500,000 mIU/mL When Can Pregnancy Tests Be Inaccurate? Urine tests are 99% accurate under normal circumstances. But if your hCG levels are unusually high—often 2,500 times higher than the lowest detectable amount—the hook effect can lead to a false negative result. This is most likely to occur late in the first trimester and especially in pregnancies involving multiples. How Does IVF Affect Pregnancy Testing? IVF (in vitro fertilization) increases the chances of a multiple pregnancy. That’s because more than one embryo is often implanted to improve success rates. A 2006 Canadian study shows that about 30% of IVF pregnancies result in multiples , compared to less than 1% of natural pregnancies. This can lead to elevated hCG levels, making inaccurate test results more likely. If you’ve undergone IVF and suspect you're pregnant but your test is negative, it's wise to request a blood test to confirm. So, Can Twins Cause a False Negative Pregnancy Test? Yes, although it’s rare , being pregnant with twins can cause a urine pregnancy test to show a false negative, especially if the pregnancy results from IVF. If you’re experiencing symptoms of pregnancy but your test results are unclear, we recommend scheduling a follow-up appointment.  We’re here to help provide accurate medical information and compassionate support, no matter where you are in your pregnancy journey.  Give us a call and talk with a licensed medical professional today.

If you're considering abortion, you're likely sorting through a lot of information—some of it helpful, some of it confusing, and some of it conflicting. This is a deeply personal decision, and you deserve medically accurate, compassionate, and pressure-free support as you explore your options. The medical risks associated with abortion can vary depending on the type of procedure, your personal health history, and how far along the pregnancy is. At CareNet of Missoula, we’re here to answer your questions and provide free ultrasounds and educational resources—so you can make the most informed decision for your health and future. Medical Risks of Chemical Abortion A chemical abortion (also known as the abortion pill) involves taking two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for pregnancy to continue, while misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy. While many women take the abortion pill without experiencing serious complications, there are some risks to be aware of. According to the FDA , side effects may include:  Heavy bleeding Infection Sepsis Uterine rupture Ruptured ectopic pregnancy In rare cases, death Clinical studies cited by the FDA report that serious adverse reactions occur in less than 0.5% of cases. However, a separate 2023 analysis  of insurance claims following chemical abortions reported a higher rate of serious complications—about 11.2%—based on a study of over 154,000 chemical abortions. If you've started a chemical abortion and are feeling uncertain about continuing, there is a protocol known as Abortion Pill Reversal, which involves progesterone therapy. Early studies  have shown a 64–68% success rate. For immediate support, you can call the 24/7 Abortion Pill Reversal hotline at 1-877-558-0333. Medical Risks of Surgical Abortion (Dilation & Evacuation) A Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) procedure is a form of surgical abortion that is typically performed during the second trimester. Like any medical procedure, it carries some risk, though many women undergo it without complications. Possible risks  may include: Injury to the cervix or uterus Infection Heavy bleeding Retained tissue Uterine perforation or rupture As with chemical abortion, risks may increase depending on your personal health history and how many previous abortions you've had. According to a review by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine , women who have had two or more D&E procedures may have a higher chance of complications in future pregnancies, such as preterm delivery . While the report did not find conclusive links between abortion and conditions like ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, breast cancer, or long-term mental health disorders, it emphasized that more research is needed in some areas to draw definitive conclusions. Emotional Considerations After Abortion While some women feel relief after an abortion, others may experience a mix of emotions—sometimes immediately, and sometimes later on. Feelings of grief, loss, or regret are not uncommon and can be difficult to process alone. At CareNet of Missoula, we offer confidential, compassionate post-abortion support for any woman who is struggling emotionally after an abortion experience. You don’t have to carry that weight alone. Healing is possible, and we’re here to walk with you. Is Abortion Legal in My State? Laws surrounding abortion vary widely by state and are changing frequently. To find out what is currently legal where you live, visit this interactive map  of abortion policies by state for the most up-to-date information. You’re Not Alone—We’re Here to Help Understanding the risks and realities of abortion is a critical part of making an informed decision. At CareNet of Missoula, we are not here to pressure or persuade—we're simply here to support you with information, medical services, and compassion. Whether you're still gathering information, feeling unsure, or need someone to talk to, our doors are open. All services are free and confidential. Let us know how we can help.

If you’re wondering when you might be able to get pregnant again after an abortion, you’re not alone—and your question is completely valid. An abortion ends an existing pregnancy, but it doesn’t change how your reproductive system works going forward. That means if you have unprotected sex after an abortion, you can become pregnant again—sometimes sooner than you might expect. Even while you’re still recovering or experiencing symptoms like bleeding or nausea from elevated hCG levels , ovulation can occur. In fact, some medical literature suggests it’s possible to conceive as soon as five days after the procedure . If you’re not ready to become pregnant right away, it may help to talk with your healthcare provider about birth control options that fit your body and your goals. You’re also always welcome at [our clinic], where we provide a safe space to ask questions, explore your options, and get reliable information—all at no cost to you. Understanding the Difference: Birth Control vs. Abortion It’s easy to feel confused about how birth control and abortion differ, especially when you’re sorting through a lot of information. You need to understand the process of conception  first. Here is a simplified explanation: Pregnancy begins when a sperm cell fertilizes an egg, forming a zygote. This single cell carries the full set of DNA from both biological parents. The zygote travels through the fallopian tube to the uterus, where it becomes a blastocyst and implants into the uterine lining. At that point, an amniotic sac begins forming around the embryo. Birth control works by preventing this process from starting—either by stopping ovulation, blocking sperm, or preventing fertilization. Abortion, by contrast, ends a pregnancy that has already begun. It doesn’t stop your body from ovulating in the future, nor does it prevent sperm from reaching the egg or implantation from occurring. That’s why your fertility can return quickly after an abortion, and pregnancy may be possible within just days. Unprotected Sex and Pregnancy Risk Understanding how pregnancy happens can help you make informed decisions. Unprotected sex can lead to pregnancy even when timing doesn’t seem ideal—during your period, after an abortion, or while on birth control. The chance of pregnancy varies based on individual factors like hormone levels, cycle timing, and overall health. However, it is still possible to become pregnant: While using contraception  (especially if not used perfectly) During your period  or in between cycles From ejaculation near the vaginal opening (even without penetration) Even if you’ve received gender-affirming care , such as testosterone—if you still have a uterus and ovaries, pregnancy can occur So, How Soon Can You Get Pregnant After an Abortion? The short answer: very soon—sometimes in less than a week. Because ovulation can return quickly, it’s important to know that unprotected sex at any time can lead to pregnancy, even shortly after an abortion. If you’re unsure about your fertility, birth control options, or next steps, we're here to help. At Care Net of Missoula, you’ll find a judgment-free place to ask questions and get support—whatever you’re facing. All our services are offered at no cost, and you’re welcome here.