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RU486 is a synthetic steroid, taken in pill form by women 5 -9 weeks pregnant. It was developed specifically to end the life of a foetus by interfering with the action of progesterone. Progesterone stimulates the proliferation of the uterine lining which nourishes the developing child.
RU486 fills the chemical receptor sites normally reserved for progesterone but does not transmit the progesterone signal. Failing to receive that signal, a woman’s body shuts down the preparation of the uterus and initiates the normal menstrual process. The foetus, deprived of necessary nutrients, starves to death. The foetus detaches and is swept out of the body along with the decayed uterine lining. (From “Mifepristone; the French Abortion Pill” website).
The RU486 procedure requires at least three visits to a medical facility. Most women abort during the 4-hour waiting period at the clinic, about 30% abort later at home, work etc. as many as 5 days later. In 5 to 10% of all cases abortion hasn’t occurred and surgical abortion is necessary to complete the procedure.
What are the risks?
There are several serious, well documented side effects associated with RU486 abortions, including prolonged (up to 44 days) and severe bleeding, nausea, vomiting, pain and even death. At least one woman in France died while others there suffered life-threatening heart attacks from the technique.
The Morning After Pill - MAP
What is the Morning After Pill?
The Morning After Pill (MAP), commercially known as Postinor 2, consists of two tablets containing very high doses of levonorgestrel, a synthetic progesterone like hormone. The first tablet is taken within 72 hours of intercourse, and the second tablet 12 hours after the first.
The MAP is equivalent to 21 days supply of the combined daily Birth Control Pill, taken within 12 hours; or 50 days supply of the once a day Progesterone Only Birth Control Pill, taken within 12 hours.
The MAP can cause an early abortion. It is a scientific fact that life begins at conception. The fertilised ovum becomes a completely new individual containing genetic material from both mother and father and 23 chromosomes - the beginning of human life.
How does the MAP work?
What should I consider before deciding on the M.A.P?
The M.A.P. will not necessarily relieve your anxiety about pregnancy because of the following reasons:
It will not necessarily work. It is estimated that M.A.P. will prevent 85% of expected pregnancies.
Possible side effects
The M.A.P. should not be taken if you know you are pregnant, if you have breast cancer, or have unexplained vaginal bleeding.
Other risks to your health
Source/ Reference
Consumer medical information by Postinor-2, Schering
For more information see www.themorningafterpill.org