What is an abortion with pills and how do they work?

An abortion with pills, also known as a medication abortion, is a method of ending an early pregnancy using specific medicines instead of a surgical procedure. It works by using two medications, mifepristone and misoprostol, that act in different ways to stop pregnancy development and help the uterus empty.

What Is a Medication Abortion?

A medication abortion uses medicines to end an early pregnancy. Unlike a procedure-based abortion, it does not involve instruments being used inside the uterus. The medicines work through hormonal changes and uterine contractions to complete the abortion process.

The two medicines commonly used are:

Mifepristone

Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone that supports the continuation of pregnancy. By preventing progesterone from working, it causes the pregnancy to stop developing.

Misoprostol

Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract. These contractions help the body pass the pregnancy tissue through vaginal bleeding.

How Do Abortion Pills Work Step by Step?

The medication abortion process works in two stages:

Step 1: Pregnancy support is stopped
Mifepristone blocks progesterone activity, which causes the pregnancy to detach from the uterine lining.

Step 2: The uterus empties
Misoprostol stimulates uterine contractions, allowing the body to remove the pregnancy tissue.

Together, these medications work to complete the abortion process.

How Are Abortion Pills Different From a Surgical Abortion?

The main difference is the method used:

• Medication abortion: Uses medicines that work through hormonal changes and uterine contractions.
• Surgical abortion: Uses a medical procedure performed by a healthcare professional to remove pregnancy tissue.

Why Are Two Medicines Used in Medication Abortion?

The two medicines have different roles:

• Mifepristone prepares the body by blocking progesterone.
• Misoprostol completes the process by causing uterine contractions.

Using both medicines together allows them to work through separate mechanisms.