APR is a procedure that involves attempting to counter the effects of the first pill in a medication abortion, also known as a chemical abortion. This first pill, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for maintaining a pregnancy. The second pill, misoprostol, is taken 24 to 48 hours later and causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.
In some cases, women who have taken the first pill regret their decision and want to continue their pregnancy. This is where the countering process comes in.
The process begins by calling the hotline to be connected to an on-call healthcare professional who will ask some basic questions to see if the procedure is possible. If so, they will be directed to a doctor or medical provider in the area to start treatment.
An ultrasound will be done as soon as possible to confirm heart rate, placement, and dating of the pregnancy. The doctor or medical provider will prescribe progesterone to counteract the effects of mifepristone and help support the pregnancy, given as a pill to be taken orally or vaginally or possibly by intramuscular injection. The treatment will usually continue through the first trimester of pregnancy.
Progesterone is the natural hormone in a woman’s body that is necessary to nurture and sustain a pregnancy. The first pill in the abortion pill regimen blocks progesterone’s actions. By giving extra progesterone, we hope to outnumber and outcompete the first abortion pill in order to counter the effects and provide an opportunity to save the pregnancy.
For some women progesterone may cause sleepiness, lack of energy, lightheadedness, dizziness, gastrointestinal discomfort, and headaches. Increased fluid intake might help relieve these symptoms.
“As a mother of a 23-year-old daughter who has Down Syndrome, I see every day the unique value she brings to our family and the positive impact she has on others around her.”
Lynn Murray
“I have a great life. I want every baby with Down syndrome to have the same chance to live and enjoy their life.”
Heidi Crowter, Heartbeat Int
"Abortion is the greatest humanitarian crisis of our generation."
—Dan Steiner, PreBorn
“'Nothing can truly prepare you for an abortion, no matter what route you take.’ She is still struggling with having had an abortion and has nightmares about it all the time. She often wonders — what if she hadn’t had the abortion? She would have two children to love now.”
Christina - Live Action
“I have always valued human life. I believe that God has a plan for all of us and that babies are a blessing and should be cherished.”
Amy Berz, RN
“We are in a battle, one that is not just political, but also spiritual. It’s a fight for the hearts and minds of people.”
Rep. Dr. Ron Bryce, Kansas (R)
“There is no better social justice cause to get involved in than saving the lives of Innocent children,”
Bishop David O’Connell
“Every 30 seconds a baby’s life is taken by abortion.”
Human Coalition
“As people of faith, we know that peace in the world begins with peace in the womb.”
Cordileone
“The Right to Life is the Lens to view all Issues.”
Bishop Strickland
