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The Myth of Abortion Pill “Reversal” in Tucson: What You Need to Know

At Choices Women’s Center, we provide safe, evidence-based abortion care to patients across Tucson and Southern Arizona. As abortion pills become more accessible and patients seek care online, misinformation about “abortion pill reversal” (APR) is spreading rapidly—including here in Arizona.

In this post, we explain what APR is, what the medical evidence says, and why you should be cautious of organizations that promote it.


💊 What Is “Abortion Pill Reversal”?

So-called “abortion pill reversal” refers to an unproven and potentially unsafe practice involving high doses of progesterone after someone has taken mifepristone, the first medication in a two-drug medication abortion regimen.

The theory behind APR is that giving high doses of progesterone might “reverse” the effects of mifepristone—before the second drug, misoprostol, is taken. However, this idea is not supported by credible medical evidence.

APR is actively promoted by anti-abortion groups and crisis pregnancy centers (CPCs), including some operating in Arizona.


🧪 What the Experts Say

A 2019 clinical trial aiming to study APR was halted early because some participants experienced serious bleeding. The researchers concluded that it was not safe to continue.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG):

“Claims about abortion reversal are not based on science and do not meet clinical standards.”

Despite warnings from the medical community, APR continues to be promoted using misinformation and fear tactics—often targeting patients in crisis.


Are Abortion Pills Safe?

Yes. The FDA-approved medication abortion regimen (mifepristone followed by misoprostol) is safe and effective.

  • Used by more than 5 million people in the U.S. since 2000
  • Complication rate is under 0.5%
  • Backed by over two decades of research
  • Recommended by the World Health Organization, the FDA, and ACOG

Anti-abortion organizations often cite misleading data—like non-peer-reviewed insurance claims studies—without clinical rigor or transparency.


⚠️ What’s the Risk of Trying APR?

APR has never been proven safe or effective in randomized controlled clinical trials. Trying it may lead to:

  • Increased risk of hemorrhage or infection
  • Delayed access to appropriate care
  • Emotional distress from unsupported outcomes

Patients deserve evidence-based medicine—not untested interventions promoted for ideological reasons.


❤️ If You’re Having Second Thoughts

If you’ve taken mifepristone (the 1st pill in a medication abortion) and feel unsure about your next step, Choices Women’s Center in Tucson is here for you.

  • Accurate, nonjudgmental information
  • Compassionate medical guidance
  • Emotional support and after-abortion care

We will never pressure you or mislead you. Your health, safety, and autonomy are our top priorities.


📍 Tucson-Based, Patient-Centered Care

We proudly serve patients in Tucson, Pima County, and across Southern Arizona. Whether you’re seeking abortion care, follow-up, or simply have questions—we’re here for you.

📞 Call us: (520)210-8300
💻 Visit us: https://www.tucsonchoices.com
🗓️ Book your appointment today

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