ABORTION PILL/RU 486

The abortion pill/RU 486 has been used by more than half a million women in Europe to end an early pregnancy. Now this early option is available to women in America. Many women report medical abortion as being "private" and "more like a miscarriage" but the method is not for all women.

What is a medical abortion?
It is a non-surgical way to end pregnancy by taking medications. It is only offered for a pregnancy that is less than seven weeks.

How do these medications work?
Two medications are used to complete a medical abortion. Mifepristone (RU 486) is a medication that blocks progesterone, the hormone necessary to maintain a pregnancy. This medication is given orally at the clinic on the first day. The second medication, Misoprostol is inserted vaginally two days later. This medication causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy. Approximately 75% of women expel the pregnancy within 24 hours of taking this medication.

How successful is it?
Approximately 90-95%. If treatment fails, a surgical procedure may be required. If you choose a medical abortion you must be willing to have a surgical abortion if needed.

What are the side effects?
You can expect to have some or all of the following symptoms: nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, heavy bleeding and strong cramping. Usually these symptoms go away after 1-2 days, but some women experience bleeding for 1-2 weeks. It is important to be honest about what you can handle. We talk with each woman individually to provide realistic and accurate information so each patient can decide for herself.

How do I decide which is method is best for me?
Every woman is different in her expectations, needs and tolerance levels. The best thing to do is review all the information thoroughly. Be honest with yourself. If you can't handle cramps or heavy bleeding this is not for you. In our experience, women who make informed decisions and choose the medical abortion/RU 486 are very happy with their choice. They report feeling like it was less invasive and more natural than a surgical abortion. The process also requires a minimum of 2-3 visits so we require that you live within 1-2 hours and are able to return for follow-up.

What medication will I receive?
We give all the medications to the patient at the first visit. You will receive the following: Mifepristone (RU486), Misoprostol, pain medication and something for nausea. You will also have lab work and an ultrasound. Rh-negative women will be given Rhogam. Our fees include everything; there are no hidden costs. How do I know it is complete? It is necessary to return for a follow up visit to confirm this. Usually it is at one week but you will be given specific instructions at your visit.

What is the cost?
Our fee of $375 includes all medications, testing, follow up and surgical procedure if needed.

For more info click here earlyoptionpill.com