Abortion Unwanted Pregnancy Termination
Abortion and Unwanted Pregnancy Termination: Legal, Safe, and Necessary Care
There are times when a pregnancy is unplanned or unwanted. In such cases, seeking an abortion may be the best option.
It is important to know that abortion is legal in India under specific conditions and can be performed up to 20 weeks of pregnancy, as per the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act.
Doctors can legally agree to an abortion if they determine that continuing the pregnancy would:
- Pose a greater risk to the physical or mental health of the woman.
- Threaten the woman’s life.
- Harm the well-being of her existing children.
- Carry a substantial risk of the child being born with severe abnormalities or disabilities.
Importance of Early Abortion
- If a woman decides to terminate her pregnancy, it is best to seek medical assistance as early as possible.
- Early abortions are safer and involve fewer complications. The type of abortion procedure depends on the duration of the pregnancy.
Methods of Pregnancy Termination
Up to 7 Weeks of Pregnancy (Medical Abortion)
- Method: Abortion tablets (medication abortion) are used to terminate the pregnancy.
- Effectiveness: Over 90% success rate.
- Advantages:
- No hospitalization required.
- No anaesthesia needed.
- No surgical procedure involved.
- Process: Tablets are taken under a doctor’s supervision. Bleeding and cramps are common as the pregnancy ends naturally.
7 to 12 Weeks of Pregnancy (Surgical Abortion)
- Method: A simple surgical procedure called Manual Vacuum Aspiration (MVA) or Suction Evacuation is performed under anaesthesia.
- Setting: Day care procedure at a certified abortion clinic.
- Advantages:
- Safe and quick procedure.
- Patients can usually return home within a few hours.
- Process: The doctor gently empties the uterus using suction. It is a short, low-risk procedure.
12 to 20 Weeks of Pregnancy (Second Trimester Abortion)
- Method: A longer surgical process called Dilatation and Evacuation (D&E) or Induction Abortion.
- Setting: Hospital stay may be required for 24 hours or longer.
- Reasons: Later abortions may be necessary due to health concerns, fetal abnormalities, or delayed decision-making.
- Process: The cervix is gradually opened, and the uterus is emptied using instruments.
Legal and Safe Abortion Care
Abortion is a sensitive decision, and it is essential to approach a qualified healthcare provider. Unsafe abortions can cause severe health complications and even lead to death.
Ensure the procedure is carried out in a certified clinic or hospital with proper legal permissions.
Final Thoughts
Every woman has the right to make decisions about her body and health. If facing an unwanted pregnancy, consulting a healthcare professional promptly ensures access to safe, legal, and confidential abortion services. Early action is key to reducing health risks and ensuring well-being.