About Us | Privacy | Site Map
May 23, 2013
Font Size
A
A
A
«Previous
1
...
7
8
9
10
11
...
Next»

Birth Control Overview (cont.)

Medical Author:
Omnia M Samra, MD
Medical Editor:
Bryan D Cowan, MD
Medical Editor:
Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD
Medical Editor:
Lee P Shulman, MD

Abortion

A drug called mifepristone (also known as RU-486) can block a hormone called progesterone that is needed for pregnancy to continue, if an egg has been fertilized and implanted in your uterus. By taking this drug (and another one called misoprostol), a pregnancy can end if it has been 49 days or fewer since your last menstrual period.

These drugs are given only by a doctor and only by certain doctors who are trained to diagnose problems that may develop such as ectopic pregnancy. You will be asked to sign a statement indicating you understand you are ending a pregnancy.

Once you take on oral dose (pill taken by mouth) of mifepristone, you will be given misoprostol 2 days later to cause your uterus to contract and expel the embryo through the vagina.

You will experience cramping and bleeding, and you must return to your doctor a few times for examination. 
 
This method is not a preventive form of birth control. For more information on pregnancy termination, see Abortion.

Must Read Articles Related to Birth Control Overview

Birth Control Barrier Methods
Birth Control Barrier Methods The practice of birth control is as old as human existence. Birth control barrier methods include the male condom, female condom, diaphragm, cervical cap and sp...learn more >>
Birth Control Behavioral Methods
Birth Control Behavioral Methods The practice of birth control is as old as human existence. Behavioral methods that don't use hormones such as birth control pills or mechanical devices such as...learn more >>
Birth Control Methods
Birth Control FAQs The practice of birth control is as old as human existence. Your choice of birth control method involves factors such as how easy it is to use, safety, risks, c...learn more >>
See the Entire Birth Control Overview Topic Guide »
Print
Print
Privacy Policy

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Please acknowledge your agreement




Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Contraception »

The practice of contraception is as old as human existence.

Read More on Medscape Reference »


Featured Topics

Topics Related to Birth Control Overview

Sexual Health Topics

Vitamins Related To Birth Control Overview

Medical Dictionary


or A-Z List
Use Pill Finder Find it Now

Pill Identifier on RxList

  • quick, easy,
    pill identification

Find a Local Pharmacy

  • including 24 hour, pharmacies