What is Mifepristone?
Mifepristone, also known as the abortion pill or RU-486, is a medication used for medical abortion. It is a synthetic steroid that blocks the effects of progesterone, a hormone crucial for maintaining pregnancy. Mifepristone is typically used in combination with misoprostol to induce abortion.
How Does Mifepristone Work?
When taken, mifepristone prevents the progesterone hormone from functioning properly, causing the lining of the uterus to break down and leading to the detachment of the fetus from the uterine wall. This process is followed by taking misoprostol to induce contractions and complete the abortion.
Benefits of Mifepristone
- Non-invasive abortion method
- Privacy of abortion at home
- High effectiveness rate
Case Studies
In a study conducted by the World Health Organization, mifepristone in combination with misoprostol has been found to be 95-98% effective in inducing abortion during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Side Effects
- Cramping and bleeding
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headaches
Conclusion
Mifepristone is a safe and effective option for medical abortion when used under the supervision of a healthcare provider. It provides women with a non-invasive method of terminating a pregnancy in the privacy of their own homes.
