Is It Safe to Take Abortion Pills at College in Illinois?

In August 2025, Illinois passed HB 3709, a new law requiring public colleges and universities to provide access to abortion pills and contraception through student health centers, campus pharmacies, telehealth, or licensed providers.

This means students may now be able to get abortion pills more easily—sometimes without ever seeing a doctor in person.

But easier access doesn’t always mean safer use. Before you take abortion pills, it’s important to understand the risks and why confirming your pregnancy first is a critical step.

What to Consider Before Taking Abortion Pills

• Do you know how far along you are?
  Abortion pills are FDA-approved up to 10 weeks of pregnancy. Taking them later increases the risk of complications.
• Is your pregnancy viable?
  About 1 in 5 pregnancies naturally end in miscarriage. If your pregnancy may be miscarrying, taking abortion pills would not be advisable, since it could add complications without addressing the real medical need.
• Is your pregnancy located in the uterus?
  If it’s ectopic (developing outside the uterus), abortion pills will not work and the condition can become life-threatening if untreated.
• What about side effects and complications?
  Even when taken within guidelines, abortion pills can cause heavy cramping, heavy bleeding, nausea, or fever. Possible complications include incomplete abortion, infection, or excessive blood loss that may require emergency care.

Why an Ultrasound Matters

An ultrasound before taking abortion pills is the safest way to confirm:

• If the pregnancy is still developing
• Whether it’s located in the uterus
• How far along you are

Without this information, taking abortion pills may be ineffective or unsafe.

How Informed Choices Can Help – At No Cost

At Informed Choices in Grayslake & Crystal Lake, Illinois, we provide:

• Free pregnancy testing
• Limited ultrasounds (when medically indicated) to confirm viability and gestational age
• Confidential consultations about abortion, risks, and alternatives

While we do not perform or refer for abortions, our caring team can help you get the facts you need before deciding about abortion pills.

You’re Not Alone

New laws may make abortion pills more accessible on college campuses, but that doesn’t replace the importance of knowing your health and safety first. Contact Informed Choices today for free and confidential support.