It is a safe, outpatient method recommended by the WHO to terminate a pregnancy or to manage an incomplete abortion.
It involves taking two medications that work together to empty the uterus effectively and gently. It has a 95% success rate.
What is mifepristone and misoprostol treatment?
Mifepristone: It is taken first. It blocks the pregnancy hormone (progesterone) and prepares the uterus.
Misoprostol: It is used 24 to 48 hours later. It causes contractions that help expel the uterine contents.
How do medications work?
Mifepristone is taken orally (a single dose).
Misoprostol can be placed under the tongue, in the cheek, or inside the vagina, as directed by the healthcare team.
How are they administered?
They may appear:
Cramps similar to or more intense than menstrual cramps.
Vaginal bleeding (sometimes heavy at the beginning).
Nausea, mild fever, chills, or diarrhea.
These are expected effects and usually improve in the following hours.
What does it feel like?
Rest on the day of treatment.
Monitor the amount of bleeding and go to the health center if any warning signs appear.
Have a medical check-up or ultrasound within 7 to 14 days to confirm that the uterus is empty.
What to do next?
Yes. When done under medical supervision and following the recommended dosages, it is a safe and effective procedure.
The risk of serious complications is very low.
Is it safe?
Bleeding may continue for several days.
Menstruation usually returns between 4 and 6 weeks.
Fertility recovers quickly, so it's important to discuss contraception if you wish.
What happens after the treatment?
It should be done with guidance and support from a health team, who can provide you with information, monitoring and support throughout the process.