The abortion pill is commonly known by several other names: RU 486, Mifepristone, Mifeprex, non-surgical abortion or medical abortion.
Actually, the “abortion pill” is a misnomer as it really is a combination of two medications, mifepristone and misoprostol. It is safe and effective when used within nine weeks of pregnancy. Your doctor will explain to you how the abortion pill works in more detail but generally when you take the mifepristone it blocks the hormone progesterone levels that are needed to maintain a successful pregnancy.
Due to the blockage of this hormone, the uterine lining begins to shed, the cervix is softened and bleeding (an indication of abortion) may occur. The bleeding may be light much like spotting towards the end of a menstrual period or heavy. In some cases, you may experience no bleeding until you take the second pill, which is the misoprostol. Misoprostol will be taken orally or inserted vaginally within 48 hours of taking the mifepristone. It causes uterine contractions (cramps) and expels the uterine contents from the body.
The abortion pill is not recommended if you have certain medical conditions such as heart disease, asthma, diabetes, bleeding problems or hypertension or if you use an intra-uterine device. It is ineffective in the case of ectopic pregnancy.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has found that 95 women out of every 100 have aborted successfully with the intake of the abortion pill in the first nine weeks of pregnancy. Moreover, with the abortion pill, the risk of infection is very low and maternal death is virtually non-existent.
The abortion pill is provided through a doctor’s office or clinic. Many women choose the pill to avoid surgery. Others feel that using the abortion pill is more private because they can end their pregnancy at home. Some feel that it is more natural than a surgical abortion. In addition, you must be able to commit to two or more visits to the clinic.
To see a list of clinics that offer the abortion pill go to:
- What Is an Abortion Pill? (brainz.org)