Medical abortion in early pregnancy: A review of the evidence

Medical abortion with mifepristone or methotrexate in combination with a prostaglandin is safe and effective. However, the risk of hemorrhage and gastrointestinal side effects is greater with medical abortion than with suction curettage. Further research should be done to compare mifepristone and methotrexate abortions, to determine the upper gestational age limit, and to find the best way to provide this service in the U.S. health care system.