Comparision of RU-486 and Surgical Abortions

RU-486/Misoprostol

Surgical Abortion

Pregnancy length

Up to 9 weeks

3 weeks through the second trimester

Success rate

97%

>99%

Bleeding

Normal to heavy

Minimal

Office visits

2

2

Rare complications

Excessive bleeding,
1-2%. 

Incomplete abortion,
1-2% 

Excessive pain,
1-2% 

Continuing pregnancy, <1%

 Infection,
<1% 

Excessive bleeding, <1% 

Perforation,
<1%

Advantages

No anesthesia needed

Noninvasive 
Like "miscarriage" 

Few side effects

Effective 

Quick

Disadvantages

If unsuccessful you may need surgical intervention. 

Ineffective for ectopic pregnancies.

Invasive. 

Requires Local or general anesthesia.