Mifepristone, formerly known as RU-486, offers women an effective medical alternative to surgical abortion. Mifepristone, followed by a dose of misoprostol, induces spontaneous abortion when administered in early pregnancy. It is a completely noninvasive procedure that does not require anesthesia and can be prescribed through the 49th day of pregnancy. The pregnant woman takes one mifepristone tablet during her first visit to the clinic.
Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone and causes the embryo to detach from the lining.
Two days later, in her home, she takes a second drug called misoprostol that causes her uterus to contract and expel the embryo and uterine lining. She must return in one to two weeks to ensure that the abortion is completed. This procedure is available to women throughout the tri-counties. Patients can visit any of the four Planned Parenthood clinics in Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo or Santa Maria to discuss the medical abortion option and obtain an ultrasound. If a woman chooses a medical abortion she will be required to travel to Santa Barbara for an examination and to receive medications.