Abortifacient

Abortifacient is a drug or an agent that induces abortion and causes the termination of pregnancy. It is used to terminate a pregnancy in the early stages, usually less than 12 weeks. Abortifacients work by blocking progesterone, a hormone that is necessary for the continuation of pregnancy. Without progesterone, the lining of the uterus breaks down and the embryo or fetus is expelled from the uterus. Abortifacients can either be taken orally, inserted vaginally, or injected, depending on the type of abortifacient used. In some cases, a combination of different methods may be used in order to maximize the effectiveness of the abortifacient. Abortifacients are usually used in cases of medical emergency, when there is a risk of serious medical complications, such as ectopic pregnancy or when the mother’s life is at risk.