RU486 (Mifepristone)

a. Procedure: The woman takes 3 mifepristone pills orally. The pills are artificial steroids, which block the hormone progesterone. The patient returns two days later for a second medication, misoprostol, which causes uterine contractions to expel the unborn child. The patient must return for a follow-up visit within two weeks. (RU486 is restricted to doctors who can operate in case a surgical abortion is needed to complete the procedure.)

b. Possible Complications:

• Bleeding
  
• Nausea
  
• Cramps
  
• Gastrointestinal Stress