Abortion Pill (RU486) The Abortion Pill (RU486) is also known as the Early Option Pill, Mifeprex®, and Mifepristone. It is used to end early pregnancy and can be taken a week after the pregnancy test is positive and up to 9 weeks since the last period. The Abortion Pill (RU486) is the most private way to end early pregnancy up to nine weeks.
The Abortion Pill is a 3 Step Process:
You take one pill (Mifepristone) in the office. This pill blocks the pregnancy hormones from working. It stops the pregnancy from growing. Most women feel normal after taking this first pill.
You take a second set of pills (Misoprostol) at home. You take the second set of pills at least 24 hours after taking the first pill. This will bring down your period. You can take it at a time most convenient for you. Most women have moderate cramping for minutes to hours after taking these pills. You will be given pain medicine to help with the cramps. Most women have bleeding that is heavier than a period and usually lasts for hours. This bleeding then lightens and becomes more like a period.
You will have to come back to the office for a follow up visit so that the doctor can check to make sure your body has passed everything. You are likely to have some kind of spotting or irregular bleeding for days or weeks. This is normal and anticipated. Since women vary in the amount and length of bleeding, these issues are fully discussed with your doctor at the time of your visit.
The Abortion Pill vs. The Aspiration Procedure?
The Aspiration Procedure has some advantages over the Abortion Pill. It is quick, requires only one visit, and there is less bleeding. However, the Abortion Pill is an excellent method for women who have a difficult time with internal procedures or who prefer the privacy of their own home.
History
The Abortion Pill (RU486) has been used in Europe for almost two decades. It has been available in the United States and approved by the Federal Drug Administration since 2000.
