Medical Abortion
Mifepristone (Mifeprex)
A medical (non-surgical) abortion is performed by administering a drug to end a pregnancy. The "Abortion Pill" (brand name Mifeprex, also known as RU486) is a form of early abortion caused by the combination of two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol. Medical abortion with mifepristone is used for abortion in women who are 8 weeks pregnant or less. During the first appointment at the clinic the patient receives the mifepristone pill to take orally. Then 24 to 72 hours later, the patient inserts a tablet of misoprostol into the vagina, which causes contractions resulting in a miscarriage. When used in combination, mifepristone and misoprostol usually result in a complete abortion within two weeks.
Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone needed to maintain the pregnancy. Because this hormone is blocked, menstruation is triggered. The uterine lining begins to shed, the cervix softens, and bleeding may occur. When the misoprostol is later inserted into the vagina, the uterus contracts and the embryo is usually expelled within 6 to 8 hours.
Most of the side effects are caused by the second medication, misoprostol. Side-effects may include heavy bleeding, headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and painful cramping. Vaginal bleeding during the abortion can be extremely heavy, and this is why it is required that a woman live within two hours of a hospital for this type of abortion.
In a few situations the abortion fails and it may require a surgical abortion or even a blood transfusion. If pregnancy is continued after taking these medications, there is a high risk of fetal deformities. In terms of long-term effects, several studies indicate a link between early abortion and an increased risk of breast cancer.
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Medical abortions occur 5-7 weeks into pregnancy, counted from the first day of a woman's last period. At this point in the pregnancy, the mother has missed her period and may start having signs of morning sickness. At this stage of development, the unborn child is alive and growing rapidly. Facial features are visible. The tiny eyes are equipped with a retina and lens. The major muscle system is developed, and the unborn child practices moving. The child has its own blood type, which may be different from the mother's. The child's heart is beating and this can be seen on a doctor's ultrasound device.
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