Medical abortion

A medical abortion, also known as medication abortion or non-surgical abortion, occurs when drugs (medication) are used to bring about an abortion. Medical abortions are an alternative to surgical abortions such as vacuum aspiration or dilation and curettage. Medical abortions are more common than surgical abortions in most places around the world.

Medical abortions are most commonly performed by administering a two-drug combination: mifepristone followed by misoprostol. Although these medications can be used separately, evidence suggests the two-drug combination is the most effective at producing a complete abortion up to 65 days after menstrual bleeding has stopped. When mifepristone is not available, misoprostol alone may be used in some situations. Methotrexate and letrozole are other medications that may be used in various combinations, often including mifepristone and/or misoprostol, to bring about an abortion.

Medical abortion is both safe and effective throughout a range of gestational ages, including the second and third trimester. In the United States, the mortality rate for medical abortion is 14 times lower than the mortality rate for childbirth, and the rate of serious complications requiring hospitalization or blood transfusion is less than 0.4%. Medical abortion can be administered safely by the patient at home, without assistance, in the first trimester. In the second trimester and beyond, it is recommended to take the second drug in a clinic, provider's office, or other supervised medical facility.

Medical abortion should not be confused with emergency contraception, which typically involves drugs (such as levonorgestrel or "Plan B") taken soon after intercourse to prevent a pregnancy from beginning.