DESCRIPTION

RU-486 is a drug that has been used in Europe for some years (in combination with a prostaglandin drug) to terminate a pregnancy. The generic drug name is mifepristone, but it is more commonly known as RU-486. This information and instruction discussion is based on the assumption that you have had counseling and competent guidance in making your decision to seek this procedure for termination of the pregnancy.

RU-486 also has potential as a menstrual inducer, to be taken several days before a woman's period is due. In addition, it is being studies as a treatment for other disorders such as endometriosis, breast cancer and Cushing's syndrome.

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REASONS FOR PROCEDURE

Personal concerns about the social or economic aspects that involve an unplanned pregnancy.

Continuing with the pregnancy may pose a threat to the life of the mother.

Mother has a genetic condition which the fetus is at significant risk of acquiring, or the fetus has been tested and is known to have the condition (such as cystic fibrosis).

Pregnancy resulted from rape.

Fetus is affected with a major disorder such as chromosomal abnormality or birth defect.

Fear that the fetus has been harmed by medications or other conditions.

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RISK INCREASES WITH

Women who are hypersensitive to the drugs used.

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DESCRIPTION OF PROCEDURE

For the first step, the RU-486 drug is taken in a tablet form. Its action is to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus or to bring on menses even if implantation has taken place.

Two days later, a second drug is given in the health care provider's office. This drug (prostaglandin) will cause contractions of the uterus and enhance effectiveness of RU-486. A 4-hour time period is spent in the health care provider's office for medical observation. After returning home, the fertilized egg is expelled. This stage can be somewhat painful, protracted and messy. Other negative side effects may include abdominal cramps, dizziness, vomiting and diarrhea.

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EXPECTED OUTCOME

Termination of the pregnancy. This method is 96 to 99 percent effective when given before the 6th week of pregnancy.

Recovery is rapid.

12 days after the procedure, a follow-up visit to the health care provider is necessary to verify the abortion is complete.

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POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

In a few situations, women who do not completely abort will need to undergo a surgical procedure to complete the abortion.

Excessive bleeding that may require a blood transfusion.

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

Following the procedure, rest quietly at home for the remainder of the day.

Heat helps. If you have pain, place a heating pad or hot-water bottle on the abdomen or back. Hot baths frequently promote muscle relaxation and relieve discomfort. Repeat the baths as often as they provide comfort.

You will probably experience intermittent bleeding for the next 10 to 14 days, which may be light or moderately heavy - decreasing with rest and increasing with standing, walking, or other activity. Use external sanitary pads for bleeding.

Your next menstrual period should begin 4 to 6 weeks after the procedure. If you take birth control pills, your first period will begin after you complete the first cycle of pills.

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MEDICATION

You may use non-prescription drugs such as acetaminophen for minor pain.

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ACTIVITY

Normal activity may be resumed almost immediately.

You should have no sexual relations for 1 week following the procedure.

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DIET

No special diet.

NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...

Any of the following occurs:

You experience increased frequency, amount, or duration of bleeding (heavier than the heaviest day of your period).

New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.

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MoonDragon's ObGyn Womens Health Information: Abortion Index

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