Medical abortion, also known as medication abortion, is a method of terminating a pregnancy using pharmaceutical drugs instead of surgical procedures. It involves taking a combination of medications to induce abortion during the early stages of pregnancy, typically up to 10 weeks gestation.
The most common regimen for medical abortion involves two types of medication:
Mifepristone: This medication is typically taken first. It works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for maintaining the pregnancy. Without progesterone, the lining of the uterus breaks down, and the pregnancy cannot continue.
Misoprostol: This medication is usually taken a day or two after mifepristone. It causes contractions of the uterus, which expels the contents, including the embryo or fetus.
Medical abortion, while generally safe and effective, does have some disadvantages to consider. Here are some of the key ones:
Less predictable experience: Unlike a surgical abortion, you can't control the timing or intensity of cramping and bleeding with a medical abortion. It can take several hours for the process to complete, and bleeding can last for weeks.
Higher failure rate: Medical abortions are very effective, but there's a slightly higher chance (around 5-7%) of the pregnancy not fully terminating compared to a surgical abortion. If this happens, you may need a surgical procedure to complete the abortion.
Emotional experience: For some women, the physical process of a medical abortion can be emotionally challenging. It can be helpful to have a support person available during this time.
Limited availability: Depending on your location, access to medical abortion may be limited. Some areas have restrictions on how late in pregnancy it's available or require multiple clinic visits.
Not suitable for all pregnancies: Medical abortions are typically recommended for earlier pregnancies (usually up to 10-12 weeks). If you're further along, a surgical abortion may be necessary.
Here are some resources where you can get more information on medical abortion:
Planned Parenthood: Is the Abortion Pill Safe?: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-keystone/who-we-are/ppkey_blog/all-you-need-to-know-about-medication-abortion-right-now.
NHS (UK): Abortion - Risks: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/abortion/
Cleveland Clinic: Medical Abortion: What It Is, Pain, Risks & Recovery: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21899-medical-abortion
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