Vitamin C Abortions Aren’t Real: What You Should Know
Contrary to urban myths, drinking excessive doses of vitamin C will not end a pregnancy. There's no scientific evidence—past or present—that ascorbic acid can induce abortion.
Why the Myth Persists
- Reports dating back to Soviet-era studies in the 1960s claimed high‑dose vitamin C “triggered menstruation,” but these lacked rigorous testing and pregnancy confirmation :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
- A 2016 review found no reduction in miscarriage rates with vitamin C supplementation in pregnancy :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
What Experts Say
- Medical professionals emphasize that vitamin C lacks any mechanism to terminate a viable pregnancy and does not affect implantation or embryonic growth :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
- Attempting such methods can delay timely medical care. One survey found some women using vitamin C for DIY abortion ended up too late for standard medication-based abortion options :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
Health Risks and Delays
- Even in large doses, vitamin C is generally not toxic; however, more than 2,000 mg/day may cause nausea, diarrhea, and increased risk of kidney stones :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
- Waiting for unproven remedies can push pregnancy past early abortion windows, increasing costs, legal barriers, and health risks :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
Safe and Effective Alternatives
If considering ending a pregnancy, FDA-approved medications such as mifepristone followed by misoprostol are the recommended method for early-stage abortion (typically ≤10–11 weeks gestation) :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
Telehealth services and reputable providers exist in many regions to safely prescribe and deliver these medications when available.
Bottom Line
Vitamin C is not an abortifacient. Relying on such myths can delay access to safe, evidence-based medical care. If needed, consult a trusted healthcare provider or licensed telemedicine service for guidance.