the Effects of RU486 and Misoprostol in Early Pregnancy - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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RU486 (mifepristone) 3 tablets + misoprostol 3 tablets... after a few drops of blood, there has been no further activity?


Doctor, as mentioned in the subject, I am 4 weeks and 1 day pregnant.
The gestational sac measures 2.1mm.
On June 29 at 1:00 PM, I took three pills of RU486.
On June 30, I experienced a small amount of bleeding (not enough to fully soak a pad).
On July 1 at 1 AM, I took two pills of Misoprostol and fell asleep.
I woke up in the morning to find no activity, so at 7 AM, I took another pill of Misoprostol.
I experienced another small amount of bleeding, equivalent to one pad, but then there was no further activity.
Now, it has been 62 hours since the first dose, and I have almost no bleeding and no pain...
What does this mean? My doctor has scheduled a follow-up appointment for July 20.
Given this situation, should I just continue to observe, or is it time to face reality at the follow-up? Also, I would like to ask if, in the worst-case scenario of needing a surgical abortion, can I also undergo a tubal ligation since I will be under general anesthesia anyway? By the way, I accidentally consumed chicken essence yesterday; is that something I should be concerned about? Thank you.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/02

Dr. Li Yueyuan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello: If there is no effect after taking RU486, you should return for a follow-up appointment as soon as possible to discuss further management with your physician.
Li Yueyuan

Reply Date: 2016/07/02

More Info


RU486, also known as mifepristone, is a medication commonly used in combination with misoprostol for medical abortion. It works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is essential for maintaining a pregnancy. When taken in the early stages of pregnancy, RU486 effectively induces abortion by causing the uterine lining to break down and preventing the embryo from implanting or sustaining itself. Misoprostol, taken afterward, helps to expel the contents of the uterus by inducing contractions.

In your case, you mentioned taking RU486 at around 4 weeks and 1 day of pregnancy, followed by misoprostol. The initial bleeding you experienced is a common response to the medication, as it indicates that the body is beginning the process of expelling the pregnancy. However, the amount of bleeding and the timing can vary significantly from person to person. Some women may experience heavy bleeding and cramping, while others may have minimal symptoms.

The fact that you have not experienced significant bleeding or pain after taking the medications could suggest that the abortion process has not yet fully occurred. It is important to follow up with your healthcare provider, as they will likely perform an ultrasound or other evaluations to determine whether the pregnancy has been successfully terminated. If the pregnancy is still viable, further medical intervention may be necessary.

Regarding your question about the possibility of undergoing a surgical procedure, including a tubal ligation, during the same operation, this is a decision that should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider. If you are considering a surgical abortion due to the ineffectiveness of the medical regimen, it may be feasible to discuss a tubal ligation at the same time, especially if you are certain about not wanting future pregnancies. However, this decision should be carefully considered, taking into account your overall health, any previous medical history, and the risks associated with anesthesia and surgery.

As for your concern about consuming chicken essence after taking RU486, it is generally advisable to avoid any non-prescribed substances during this time, as they could potentially interfere with the medication's effectiveness or lead to unexpected side effects. However, chicken essence is not known to have any specific contraindications with RU486 or misoprostol, but it is always best to consult your healthcare provider regarding any dietary concerns during this process.

In summary, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your symptoms, any medications you have taken, and your overall health history. They can provide the best guidance tailored to your specific situation, ensuring that you receive appropriate care and support during this time. If you have any lingering questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor before your scheduled follow-up appointment.

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