Abortion (MTP)

What is Abortion?

Abortion is a medical procedure done to terminate a pregnancy—for various reasons ranging from unwanted pregnancy to health risks to the mother. It can either be with the help of medicines, known as medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) or done surgically to remove the fetus from the uterus, known as surgical abortion.

Dr. Jagrati Laad , a renowned gynecologist from Wombs Fertility & Reproductive Health Clinic, Pune, says that these procedures can only be decided based on the gestational age and a thorough assessment by the doctor.

When is Abortion needed?

There are several reasons a woman can decide to go for an abortion. For example:

• An unplanned or unwanted pregnancy is detected much later than ten weeks.
• Medical conditions in which the patient’s life is at risk if the pregnancy is continued.
• Ectopic pregnancy, which is a condition where the pregnancy occurs anywhere other than the uterus. It can be life-threatening.
• Intrauterine infections that can happen due to a premature breaking of the amniotic sac or due to dead remnants of a fetus due to trauma or other complications.
• If placenta previa, or the detachment of the placenta from the uterine wall, reduces oxygen supply to the fetus and causes bleeding. In case of excessive bleeding that may be life-threatening for the mother, the fetus is aborted if not viable.
• If preterm rupture of amniotic membranes (which completely drains the fluid) happens before 24 weeks of pregnancy.

What to expect at the consultation for Abortion?

In case you or someone you know wants to get an abortion, you should always get medical consultation and help for painful procedures like a surgical abortion. At Wombs Fertility & Reproductive Health Clinic, Pune, Dr. Jagrati Laad , can guide you every step of the way. Your consultation will include a detailed assessment of your physical health, a urine pregnancy test to confirm pregnancy (if not physically evident), complete medical history including anemia, STDs, details of your last menstrual cycle, and contraceptive use. In addition, a pelvis ultrasound will be prescribed to ensure the risks involved in cases of ectopic pregnancies or placental issues and to know the exact gestational age and health of the fetus.

Methods of Abortion

Medical Abortion

Also known as medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) or nonsurgical or “abortion pill” abortions, this method uses a combination of two medications, mifepristone, and misoprostol. It can be started immediately by taking medicine at the doctor’s clinic or home, just as prescribed by Dr. Jagrati Laad .

• Mifepristone: It blocks the activity of progesterone and results in thinning of the uterine wall, which in turn causes problems with embryo implantation and growth.

• Misoprostol: It causes the uterus to contract and expel the contents, causing termination. As a rule, the 1st pill is taken at the doctor’s clinic. You can then take the Misoprostol at home as prescribed by Dr. Jagrati Laad .

• Oral Mifepristone + vaginal/buccal/lingual Misoprostol: The Mifepristone is taken orally with water, and a slow-dissolving pill of Misoprostol is inserted vaginally and kept sublingually or orally. This procedure is done to increase the efficacy of Misoprostol. It should be carried out within nine weeks of gestation, calculated from the 1st day of the last menstrual cycle.

• Vaginal Misoprostol + Methotrexate: This combination is generally used for Ectopic pregnancies and is usually not done for normal pregnancies. Methotrexate is given by a shot or Orally. It is advisable to do this method within seven weeks from the 1st day of the last menstrual cycle.

Vacuum Aspiration

Vacuum Aspiration, also known as Suction Abortion, is a procedure used for terminating pregnancies up to 16 weeks. In this procedure, the cervix is dilated (opened) and then a syringe or vacuum tube is inserted into the uterus to remove the fetus and placenta. This method can be done in an outpatient setting and is typically the fastest and safest way to terminate an early pregnancy.

Dilation and Evacuation (D&E):

Dilation and Evacuation, or D&E is a surgical procedure used to terminate a pregnancy between 13-24 weeks. During the procedure, the cervix is dilated (opened) and then medical instruments are inserted into the uterus to remove the fetus and placenta. This method can involve suctioning, forceps, or both.

Late-Term Abortion: Dilation and Extraction

Dilation and extraction, also known as “partial-birth” abortion is a surgical method that is used to terminate pregnancy between 20-24 weeks. The cervix is dilated over several days with osmotic dilators and further dilation if needed. Then, the fetus is removed in pieces or intact depending on the gestational age. This method is very rare, and can only be performed in certain medical cases when it is deemed necessary for the health of the mother.

It is important to discuss all of your available options with a healthcare provider before making any decisions about terminating a pregnancy. It is also important to consider potential risks and complications associated with each type of procedure. It is also important to remember that abortion is a personal decision. Wombs Fertility & Reproductive Health Clinic provides a safe, private environment for abortion in Pune.

Usually, a painkiller and antibiotic are also prescribed to manage pain and infection risks associated with medical procedures.

How is the recovery after Abortion?

After getting a surgical abortion, you will need someone to accompany you home. If you had general anesthesia, you may feel confused for some time and may have some nausea and vomiting. However, you can return to regular activities within one to two days. Dr. Jagrati Laad assures you that all necessary instructions will be given to heal better. It is normal to have mild cramping and light spotting for a few days. You will need to use a sanitary pad for the bleeding. You will require antibiotics and painkillers to prevent infection and pain. Also, note that your next menstrual cycle date will vary a lot from regular days. It can either be early or late. You may also need to postpone sex, swimming, and tampon use until the doctor gives you the green light for it.

It is recommended to keep Dr. Jagrati Laad updated about your health condition and to schedule a follow-up visit. In addition, you should ask the doctor what to expect if any tissues are sent for biopsy.

What are the risks associated with Abortion?

Any abortion procedure can cause:

• Mild to moderate cramping
• Spotting or light bleeding

Like any medical procedure, a surgical abortion may carry the risk of complications like damage to the cervix or a perforated uterus or bladder and blood vessels though this is a rare occurrence. Dr. Jagrati Laad emphasizes that you should urgently contact the gynecologist if you experience any of the symptoms listed below after a surgical abortion:

• Heavy/ prolonged bleeding
• Presence of blood clots
• Fever
• Pain
• Abdominal pain on touch
• Foul-smelling discharge from the vagina

Rarely may some patients develop Asherman’s syndrome or scar tissue formation in the uterus after a surgical abortion. It can lead to infertility and menstrual changes.

Dr. Jagrati Laad from Wombs Fertility & Reproductive Health Clinic< Pune, has many years of experience and will ensure that your procedure will be performed safely and comfortably.

What is the cost of Abortion in Pune?

The cost of abortion procedures in Pune varies depending on the stage of the pregnancy and the chosen method. Dr. Jagrati Laad will discuss the cost with you during your consultation.