Abortion: What Are My Options and How Do I Choose the Right One?

Finding out about an unplanned pregnancy can be confusing and emotionally stressful. If you’re considering an abortion, it’s important to know that safe and legal abortion options are available in India.

The right choice depends on how many weeks pregnant you are and your medical condition. This guide explains abortion options in simple, patient-friendly language to help you make an informed decision.

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What should I do before choosing an abortion method?

Before deciding on any abortion method, your doctor must confirm:

• Duration of pregnancy (number of weeks)
• That the pregnancy is inside the uterus
• Basic blood tests (such as hemoglobin and blood group)

👉 An ultrasound and medical consultation are essential before taking abortion pills or undergoing a procedure.

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What are the safe abortion options available?

There are two medically approved ways to terminate a pregnancy:

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1. Medical Abortion (Abortion Pills)

What is medical abortion?
Medical abortion uses prescribed medicines to safely end an early pregnancy.

Up to how many weeks is it done?
Usually up to 9 weeks of pregnancy, under medical supervision.

How does it work?

• Tablets are taken as advised by the doctor
• Bleeding and cramps occur, similar to a heavy period
• Pregnancy tissue passes naturally

Advantages:

• No surgery or anesthesia
• Can be done at home with guidance
• More privacy for some women
• Less expensive

Things to keep in mind:

• Bleeding may last 1–2 weeks
• Follow-up is mandatory to confirm completion
• Pain and cramps are expected but manageable

⚠️ Never take abortion pills without consulting a doctor.

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2. Surgical Abortion (Procedure-Based Abortion)

What is surgical abortion?
A short medical procedure done in a hospital or clinic to remove the pregnancy.

When is it needed?

• After 9 weeks of pregnancy
• If abortion pills are not suitable or have failed
• If quick completion is preferred

What happens during the procedure?

• Done by a trained gynecologist
• Takes only a few minutes
• Usually done under local or short anesthesia

Advantages:

• Quick and predictable
• Less bleeding compared to pills
• Immediate completion

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How do I choose the right abortion method?

There is no single best option—the right choice depends on individual factors.

Medical abortion may suit you if:

• Pregnancy is early
• You prefer to avoid a procedure
• You are comfortable managing bleeding at home

Surgical abortion may suit you if:

• Pregnancy is more advanced
• You want a faster, more controlled process
• Medical abortion is not advised for you

Your gynecologist will help you decide what’s safest for your body.

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Is abortion safe?

Yes. Abortion is safe when done legally by a qualified doctor.

Most complications occur due to:

• Self-medication
• Buying abortion pills online or over the counter
• Delaying medical care despite warning symptoms

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Will abortion affect my future fertility?

No. A properly done abortion does not affect future fertility or chances of pregnancy.

Periods usually return within 4–6 weeks, and ovulation can occur even earlier.

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What emotional changes can happen after abortion?

Some women feel relief, while others may feel sadness or mixed emotions.

All these feelings are normal and usually temporary. Counselling and support can help if emotions feel overwhelming.

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What care is needed after an abortion?

• Follow-up visit or scan to confirm completion
• Adequate rest and hydration
• Iron supplements if advised
• Start contraception early to avoid unintended pregnancy

👉 Pregnancy can occur again as early as 2–3 weeks after abortion.

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🚨 When should I see a doctor urgently?

• Heavy bleeding (soaking 2 pads per hour for 2 hours)
• Severe or increasing abdominal pain
• Fever or chills
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• Dizziness or fainting

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Is abortion legal in India?

Yes. Abortion is legal in India under the MTP Act when done by a registered medical practitioner at an approved facility.

Privacy and confidentiality are strictly protected.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Up to how many weeks can abortion be done?
Usually up to 20 weeks, and up to 24 weeks in special situations, as per Indian law.

2. Can abortion pills be taken without seeing a doctor?
No. This is unsafe and can cause serious complications.

3. Is abortion painful?
Mild to moderate pain and cramps are normal and manageable with medication.

4. Will abortion affect future pregnancy?
No. Safe abortion does not affect future fertility.

5. When do periods return?
Usually within 4–6 weeks.

6. Can an unmarried woman get an abortion?
Yes. Marital status is not required.

7. Is privacy maintained?
Yes. Patient confidentiality is strictly maintained.

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📍 Source: Dr. Shweta Mehta – DNB, Obstetrics & Gynaecology | United Multispeciality Hospital, Kandivali West, Mumbai.