When faced by an unplanned pregnancy many women have thought about having an abortion.

MTP pills & Surgical abortion are two ways to end a pregnancy. Both are safe & legal; but which one is suitable for you?

You need to understand all about both the procedures to make informed decisions for yourself.

Mykare Health is here to help you with it. We will help you understand all about MTP pills and surgical abortion.

What are Medical Abortion (MTP) Pills?

Medical Abortion includes using medications to stop a pregnancy. There are widely many MTP kits available in the market. They usually contain two medicines Mifepristone & Misoprostol

Mifepristone

• It is an anti progesterone hormone.

• It primarily interrupts action of progesterone creating an unfavorable condition for continuing pregnancy.

Misoprostol

• It causes contractions in the uterus pushing out the pregnancy tissue from the body.

Restriction on Using MTP Pills

MTP pills are legal & generally considered safe. But if you fall under any of the following categories you need to get approval from a healthcare professional.

• Trying to get pregnant

• Breastfeeding

• Kidney problems

• Liver disorders

• Allergies or hypersensitivity

• Previous ectopic pregnancy

• Age 35 or above

• Asthma

• Bleeding or clotting disorders

• Diabetes

• Heart diseases

Side Effects of MTP Pills

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

• Constipation

• Vomiting

• Vaginal Bleeding

• Leg Pain

• Extreme Tiredness

• Dizziness

• Abdominal Pain

• Appetite Loss

What is Surgical Abortion ?

Surgical abortion involves a medical procedure to remove pregnancy from the uterus. It can be done by an experienced professional in a healthcare setting.

Surgical abortion involves a minor operation. There are two types

1. Vacuum Aspiration

• Done in the first trimester of pregnancy.

• Removes pregnancy by gentle suction

• Can be done with general anesthesia, sedation or local anesthesia.

2.Dilation & Evacuation

• Done in the second trimester of pregnancy.

• Removed using narrow forceps through the neck of the womb (cervix).

• Uses combination of suction & surgical instruments

Timing: When Can Each Options be Used ?

MTP Pills

• Most effective in early stages of pregnancy

• Can be performed between 7 to 9 weeks (or 63 days)

• The earlier procedure initiated the more effective & lesser complications

Surgical Abortion

• Vacuum Aspiration: Up to 12 weeks

• Dilation & Evacuation (D&E): Up to 24 weeks (depending on local laws)

Legal Compliances of Abortion in India

Abortions are legal in India. In India, the laws regarding abortion are governed by the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971, & the MTP (Amendment) Act, 2021.

1. Up to 20 weeks

Abortion is allowed if two doctors agree that the pregnancy would cause

• physical or mental harm to the mother,

• the fetus has severe abnormalities.

2. 20-24 weeks

Abortion is allowed if two doctors agree that the pregnancy would cause

• significant risks to the mother's health

• in cases of fetal abnormalities

3. Beyond 24 weeks

Abortion is generally not allowed, except in

• in exceptional cases

• the mother's life is at risk

• in cases of severe fetal abnormalities, with court approval.

4. Victims of rape

Abortion is allowed up to 24 weeks for survivors of rape or incest.

5. Minors

Abortion requires parental consent for minors below 18 years.

6. Single women

Single women can access abortion services without needing to disclose their marital status.

MTP Pills v/s Surgical Abortion

Advantages & Disadvantages of MTP Pills

Advantages & Disadvantages of Surgical Abortion

Which Option is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between MTP pills & surgical abortion depends on various factors including your gestational age, personal preference, medical history, & emotional needs.

• If you are early in your pregnancy, prefer a non-invasive procedure, & value privacy, MTP pills may be the right choice for you.

• If you are further along in your pregnancy, want a faster, more definitive procedure, or are concerned about the possibility of incomplete abortion, surgical abortion might be a better fit.

Both options are safe & effective, & the most important thing is that you choose the method that feels right for your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that you are making the best choice for your physical & emotional well-being.