Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) is commonly known as abortion.

Abortion can be done but it may have certain risks, if proper procedure is not followed.

If you are trying to understand the procedures, risks, and recovery of a MTP, then this blog is perfect for you.

Mykare Health is here for you to guide you the proper procedure, risks, and recovery of an abortion so that you recover well without any risk. Let’s dive in.

What is Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP)?

MTP can be done legally, but it has certain conditions. There are various types of MTP as follows.

There are two main types of MTP

• Medical Abortion, which involves using medications to terminate a pregnancy, typically used within the first 9-10 weeks.

• Surgical Abortion, which is used to remove the pregnancy from the uterus. These methods are more common in later stages of pregnancy, usually after 10-12 weeks.

Procedures for MTP

• You will have to take medications to terminate a pregnancy. It is effective within the first 9-10 weeks of pregnancy. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, which is necessary to sustain the pregnancy.

• After 24-48 hours, misoprostol is taken to induce uterine contractions to terminate the pregnancy.

• There is cramping and bleeding in this method. It is a very effective method.

Surgical procedures are used to remove the pregnancy tissue from the uterus. These methods are often chosen for pregnancies beyond 9 weeks. Vacuum Aspiration (Suction Abortion), performed between 6 and 12 weeks of pregnancy.

• In this method a local anaesthetic is given to numb the cervix. The cervix is slowly dilated.

• Then a thin tube attached to a suction device is introduced into the uterus to gently remove the pregnancy tissue. It may last around 10-15 minutes, and may require local anaesthesia.

• Dilation and Curettage (D&C), is usually performed between 10 and 12 weeks. The cervix is dilated, and a small curette is used to scrape the uterine lining and remove the pregnancy tissue.

• Dilation and Evacuation (D&E), is usually performed after 12 weeks and into the second trimester. The cervix is gradually dilated over a day or two before the procedure using medication or dilators. A combination of suction and surgical instruments is used to remove the pregnancy tissue from the uterus.

• Induction Abortion (Less Common), is used in very late-stage abortions.

Risks of MTP

Though pregnancy can be terminated safely, there are certain risks you should be aware of. The pregnancy may not be completely expelled, requiring additional medical or surgical intervention. Heavy bleeding can occur in some cases.

If any pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus, it can lead to infection. Symptoms like fever, foul-smelling discharge, and severe abdominal pain may indicate an infection.

Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramping are common side effects of the medications used in medical abortion.

There is a small risk of damage to the uterus, cervix, or surrounding organs during the procedure. This may lead to certain complications. If sedation or general anaesthesia is used, there is a risk of adverse reactions to the anaesthesia.

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and cramping are common side effects. Some women may develop blood clots in the uterus, which can cause severe cramping.

Some women may develop symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or prolonged emotional distress. General anaesthesia carries risks of respiratory or cardiovascular complications, especially in late-term abortions.

In some cases, complications from MTP may affect future pregnancies. Whether through medical or surgical means, incomplete abortion may require further medical or surgical intervention to remove remaining tissue.

Recovery After MTP

• After both medical and surgical abortions, it is normal to experience vaginal bleeding, similar to a heavy period, which can last from a few days to a few weeks.

• Bleeding generally tapers off after 1-2 weeks. Ibuprofen can help alleviate cramping. Rest is recommended for the first few days, but light physical activity can resume as soon as you feel ready.

• Women may experience a wide range of emotions following an MTP, including relief, sadness, guilt, or anxiety. Some women may feel tired after the procedure due to blood loss or the body’s physical response. Rest and hydration help in recovery.

• These feelings are normal, and emotional reactions vary widely based on individual circumstances. Emotional recovery can be aided by talking to a supportive partner, family member, or counsellor.