Articles

On September 28, 2000, the FDA approved the drug mifepristone, also known as RU-486, as an approved method of early abortion. The decision has been accompanied by huge amounts of controversy between pro-choice and pro-life advocates. But many people don't know what the abortion pill really is, what is does, and how it is really used.

How does mifepristone work?

The hormone progesterone is necessary to maintain a healthy pregnancy by preparing the lining of the uterus for a fertilized egg. Mifepristone works by blocking progesterone, and inducing a miscarriage, or spontaneous abortion. After 48 hours, the drug misoprostol is administered, which induces labor. Studies show that the drug is effective in 92-96% of cases. Mifepristone must be taken in the first seven weeks of pregnancy.

The abortion pill is often confused with emergency contraception, or the morning-after pill. EC is used to prevent a pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, and is not an abortion. In contrast, mifepristone does induce an abortion, and is not meant to be a form of birth control.

Is the drug safe?

The drug is a very safe alternative to a surgical abortion. It has been used safely by over 600,000 women in Europe. There have been no reported deaths from the use of Mifepristone. However, some women should not take Mifepristone. A woman with a tubal pregnancy, an IUD in place, adrenal gland problems, using steroid medications, bleeding problems, using anticoagulants, or with allergies to the drug should consider other forms of abortion.

Are there side effects?

Mifepristone can cause various undesirable side effects, including pain, bleeding, nausea, cramping, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and chills. In 5% of women, surgery is required to complete the abortion, control bleeding, or to perform an abortion if the drug is not effective.

Is Mifepristone is form of birth control?

Absolutely not, Midepristone is not a form of birth control. It is an option for those who wish to terminate their pregnancy through abortion. One should also take into consideration that: multiple abortions can cause numerous problems in a woman's body, including affecting her ability to reproduce in the future.

Mifepristone can be a valuable option if a pregnancy occurs and if an apportion is desired, but make sure you discuss all your options with a physician and with your partner. Remember apportion is not the only option of an unwanted pregnancy; adoption is also another option. But always remember, condoms (or other forms of contraceptives) are almost 99.9% effective if used correctly and help prevent the spread of STD's and pregnancy.