With this pre-RU-486 method, methotrexate was administered through an injection in the thigh and the patient deposited misopristol tablets into the vagina 48 hours later, inducing a miscarriage.

Cohen said that no students were ever referred from UHS for this type of medical abortion.

The Planned Parenthood representative said the RU-486 treatment works more quickly and is more effective than methotrexate.

However, she said the clinic still receives only 9 to 12 appointments for RU-486 treatments each week as opposed to 150 for surgical abortions.

"The medical abortion takes time and flexibility," she said. "Surgical abortions are also cheaper."

Cohen said that mental health services will continue to be available for students who have undergone the RU-486 treatment, just as they have been for students who opt for surgical abortions.

"All the follow-up medical care [for RU-486] will be done through Planned Parenthood or Brigham and Women's," she said. "But UHS will be available to do all the counseling."

Staff Writer Heather B. Long can be reached at hblong@fas.harvard.edu