Which medication can induce abortion within the first trimester?

Mifepristone is a medication specifically designed for inducing abortion within the first trimester of pregnancy. It functions as an antiprogestin, which means it blocks the hormone progesterone that is necessary for maintaining a pregnancy. By inhibiting progesterone, Mifepristone effectively causes the breakdown of the uterine lining, leading to termination of the pregnancy.

In conjunction with another medication, usually Misoprostol, Mifepristone is part of a medical abortion regimen that is highly effective in the early stages of pregnancy. The combination allows for a more complete abortion process, helping to ensure that the uterus expels the pregnancy tissue.

The other medications listed, while they may have roles in reproductive health, are not primarily used for inducing abortion within the first trimester in the same manner as Mifepristone. Understanding each medication's mechanism and intended use is essential in a midwifery context, particularly when it comes to providing safe and appropriate care for individuals seeking abortions.