RU486/Abortion Pill
Before taking RU486, you should understand what it is, what it could mean to your health and how it works. Call for an appointment and one of our staff will be happy to discuss it with you, confirm if you're pregnant and advise you on your options.
What is it?
RU-486, also known as “the abortion pill,” is actually a combination of two drugs -- mifepristone and misoprostol -- that cause early abortion. It should not be used if it has been more than 7 weeks since your last period. It is NOT the same as the “morning after pill.”
How does it work?
The first pill, mifepristone, is taken orally and blocks the hormone progesterone needed to maintain the pregnancy, so the embryo dies. The second pill, misoprostol, causes the uterus to contract and expel the placenta and embryo, (which is the scientific term for the baby until it reaches 8 weeks in utero). It is supposed to be taken orally, but some doctors may insert it vaginally, which has been know to cause serious complications and even death.
Things to Consider
An RU-486 abortion requires 3 visits to a health care provider.
- Most medical abortions using mifepristone are completed within 2 weeks, but some can take up to 3 or even 4 weeks.
- Side effects include heavy bleeding, headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and cramping.
- If this method fails, a surgical abortion will be required.
Sources: Kaiser Family Foundation, “Issue Update: Mifepristone: An Early Abortion Option,” July 2001. Mifeprex® Medication Guide, Danco Laboratories, LLC, revised 7/19/05
See Also
- Morning After Pill
