Medical abortion is a procedure used to stop unwanted pregnancy with no surgery. It is no longer required to get the surgery done to get an abortion. However, this procedure involves taking two medications, Mifepristone and Misoprostol, to be completed. Mostly, Medical Chemical Abortion can be done up to around nine weeks of unwanted pregnancy.

Different Types of Abortion

The two types of procedures for abortion are medical and surgical abortion. Below are some differences between them:

Medical abortions, for nine weeks of pregnancy or less:  In this, women are required to take two different medicines.  You can get the prescription at home through your preferred healthcare partner. 

Surgical Abortion: This type of abortion includes major surgery, as it is required to remove the embryo from the uterus. During the process, local anesthesiology was used to perform it effectively

When do Women Choose Medical Abortion to be Performed?

 Undergoing a medical abortion is a very personal decision for an individual. Women choose medical abortions because of the possible risk of an inherited disease. A good option for women who want to end an unwanted pregnancy. This way, there may not be any complications in the future. Furthermore, there is an option for women who have health complications, where carrying the pregnancy further could lead to problems and be life-threatening for them.

To decide to have an abortion, you should discuss it with your doctor before deciding.

1. Procedure for Getting Medical Abortion  

Getting an abortion through medical procedures can be done with both oral medications or vaginal surgery using local anesthesia. It usually combines using two types of drugs, named Misoprostol & Mifepristone.

2. Trimester Details of Abortion

i. FIRST TRIMESTER

One -7 Weeks

In this type of abortion pill regimen, a drug combination is used to end unwanted pregnancy up to 49 days after the last menstrual period.

13 Weeks

Suction curettage, or vacuum aspiration, is often used during the first trimester. Unless there is any complication, this procedure is often done on an outpatient basis and can also be done in a physician’s office.

ii. SECOND TRIMESTER

 14-23 Weeks

 Dilatation and evacuation (D&E) and labor induction are the common methods that are typically used from 14-23 weeks after the first day of the last menstrual period.

iii. THIRD TRIMESTER

 24-38 Weeks

 If your doctor believes it is necessary for your health, abortion at this stage of your pregnancy may be done.

Possible Negative Effects of a Medical Abortion?

 Mostly, side effects after a medical abortion start after taking the second pill. After taking both doses of medication, you can expect these side effects that are often caused after a medical abortion that you must consider:

• Heavy bleeding with blood clots can occur for the next several hours.
• Low Fever or chills may last for about a day after taking the second pill. You can feel tired and dizzy after taking the second pill.
• Vaginal bleeding and cramping are the common side effects of the Medical Chemical Abortion process.
• The pills can make you feel uncomfortable and can lead you to suffer from vomiting or Nausea.
• Furthermore, the other most common side effects of using medical abortion procedures that you might encounter are high Fever, headache, and even diarrhea. 

Recovering After a Medical Abortion

The amount of time to recover after a medical abortion will vary in most cases. Sometimes, resuming normal activities within a day or two is seen. You should be in touch with your healthcare provider throughout the medical abortion process. You should discuss all the concerns with them and ensure you understand the process.

When to Call the Healthcare for Support?

You need to work closely with a healthcare provider throughout the process of medical abortion. Discuss all the concerns and apprehensions, and be sure you understand the process and what to expect.

Seek help if:

• Severe bleeding and soaking more than two thick pads within an hour.
• Fever that lasts more than 24 hours should be noted.
• Any kind of Foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
• If you have abdominal or back pain.
• You are having symptoms of pregnancy.

Conclusion

The decision to have a Medical Chemical Abortion is very personal. Certified Healthcare providers can help and guide you, and tell you what to expect from the procedure when carried out. If you are looking to get a medical abortion done, you can contact Orlando Women’s Center, where you can get a highly experienced healthcare team for your healthcare needs.