Essential Information to Know Medical Abortion

There are two types of abortion available surgical and medical. In this video, we will focus on medical abortion. The Medical abortion often referred to as the abortion pill is a safe and effective way to end the pregnancy. The pill is usually taken within the 12 weeks of gestation. The whole process can take up to 2 weeks to complete, although most women feel normal again immediately after two days. Depending on the method, it can be up to 98% effective after completing the termination procedure.

How does it work?

Medical Abortion can consist of two types of medication; Mifepristone and Misoprostol. Using the combination of both medicines is the effective method to complete the termination process.

Mifepristone works by blocking progesterone a hormone necessary to maintain a pregnancy. While Misoprostol works by causing the uterus contract and empty the uterus.

How to consume?

The combination method requires one Mifepristone pill, followed by 4 Misoprostol pills 24-48 hours later. If Mifepristone is not available, Misoprostol can be taken on its own; this method is 75-85% less effective. When taking Misoprostol alone, 12 pills are required to be taken within 12 hour period.  4 pills every 3 hours is recommended procedure to follow.

What can you expect from a medical abortion?

Misoprostol causes cramping and bleeding to empty the uterus and it can feel like a having heavy period that is not uncommon to pass large blood clots during the process.

Side effect can include

·      Diarrhea

·      Vomiting

·      Tiredness

·      Mild fever or chills

·      Headaches

·      Dizziness

To ease pain and discomfort some of the following may help

·      Staying at home or in a comfortable space when taking the pills.

·      Taking Ibuprofen or pain killers before the procedure.

·      Having a hot bath or shower.

·      Ensuring a friend or family member are present to help reassure and comfort you

·      Having an emergency plan in place for any potential complication.

You should have medical advice, in case you have

·      Excessive bleeding- If more than two sanitary pads are filled per hour for 2 hours

·      Experience intense pain, or continuous vomiting.

·      A fever higher than 38 degrees celsius that persists for longer than 12 hours.

What happens next?

·      This will depend on each woman’s individual experience. Most women can expect tiredness, cramping and bleeding for a few days.

·      Whereas, within 24-48 hours, most women feel fine to return to their daily routine. Although is not essential it is advisable to plan a follow up appointment with a health provided two weeks after the procedure and if they confirm the process was successful and then discuss your contraceptive options.

What happens to periods?

Your periods should return to normal 4-6 weeks after the taking the pills and if it does not return, a pregnancy test should to be taken to confirm that there are no longer signs of a pregnancy.

How soon can sex be resumed?

Sex can be resumed as soon as you feel ready, but the pregnancy can happen soon after the medical abortion, so it is advisable to talk to a health provided about the right contraception for you.

Important Medical Abortion Information

Women experiencing pregnancy within 12 weeks are eligible of taking abortion pills like Abortion Pill Pack or MTP Kit. It is the safest, cost-effective, and convenient method of medical abortion.

Less than 5 Weeks Pregnant- 1 MTP Kit or Abortion Pill Pack

More than 5 Weeks Pregnant- 2 MTP Kits or Abortion Pill Pack (Recommended) for Emergency Cases

                                                       (Although 1 MTP Kit (Abortion Pill Pack) is sufficient)