The hormone that is targeted to destroy a pregnancy is progesterone.
The reference material explains how mifepristone, a medication, works by stopping progesterone from working. This results in the breakdown of the uterine lining, which is essential for maintaining a pregnancy, and therefore the pregnancy cannot continue.
Here's a breakdown of how progesterone and mifepristone relate to pregnancy termination:
- Progesterone's Role: Progesterone is a crucial hormone for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. It prepares the uterine lining for implantation of a fertilized egg and sustains the pregnancy.
- Mifepristone's Action: Mifepristone blocks the effects of progesterone, which prevents the uterine lining from supporting the pregnancy. The reference states that "This stops the hormone progesterone from working. The lining of the uterus breaks down so the pregnancy cannot continue."
- Consequence: By blocking progesterone, mifepristone initiates the process that leads to the end of the pregnancy.
| Hormone | Role in Pregnancy | Impact of Blocking |
|---|---|---|
| Progesterone | Maintains the uterine lining and sustains pregnancy | Pregnancy termination |
