Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Medication abortion (or medical abortion) is a safe, reliable and non-surgical means of abortion for people who have made an informed decision that is is the best option for them.
  • Medication abortion is an alternative to surgical abortion in the early weeks of pregnancy (up to 9 weeks). It involves taking medications mifepristone and misoprostol to terminate a pregnancy.
  • Mifepristone (previously known as RU486) is taken by mouth. It ends a pregnancy by blocking the action of the hormone (progesterone) that supports the pregnancy.
  • Misoprostol is also taken by mouth. It causes the cervix to soften and the uterus to contract to expel the pregnancy.
  • Medication abortion is not suitable for everyone. It may not be recommended if you have certain medical conditions, take some medicines (such as blood thinners or steroids) or had allergic reactions.

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Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 18-10-2022