Medical Process of Abortion

Overview

When faced with an unwanted pregnancy or a pregnancy that requires termination due to medical issues, abortion is a safe option available around the world. Despite its controversial nature, women are choosing this option daily. Understanding the medical process of abortion can educate those that are considering this process and help determine which path to take.

What is Abortion?

Abortion is the voluntary termination of a pregnancy. Pregnant women choose to have an abortion for medical reasons, unwanted pregnancies and to reduce the number of children when the pregnancy consists of multiples such as twins or triplets. For a medical abortion, the patient is provided the necessary medication by her physician and then is permitted to be at home for process to occur.

Types of Abortions

Medication to terminate a pregnancy is often the first option that physicians recommend since the possibility of infections is significantly reduced. The FDA approved the use of mifepristone as well as misoprostol for the use of aborting a pregnancy. Mifepristone is used to block the progesterone receptors which will cause the fetus to begin to breakdown, dilate the cervix and begin the process of detaching the sac from the wall of the uterus. Misoprostol causes the uterus to start contracting, which will expel the fetus and all associated material.

Surgical procedures such as a vacuum aspiration and dilate and curette (D&C) are used as a second choice for abortions.

Medical Process

Mifepristone and misoprostol is provided by a physician after a consultation and examination. The woman is sent home with complete instructions on how to take the medication and what to look for. Typically, a physician will direct the woman to take 600mg of mifepristone and then .4mg of misoprostol approximately 24 to 48 hours later. Once all medication has been taken, abortion will usually occur within 24 hours.

If complications occur during the medical process of abortion, alternative methods are used to complete the termination.

With the vacuum aspiration, the cervix is dilated and a small tube is inserted into the uterus. The tube is connected to a vacuum that will remove the fetus and the associated tissues out of the uterus. A D&C consists of the cervix being dilated and a small knife-like tool called a curette is inserted into the uterus. The physician will scrape the uterus with the curette to remove the fetus and associated tissues. The physician will then allow the woman to expel the contents herself or will remove them with a vacuum.

Who Can Perform an Abortion

Abortions must be overseen by a physician but can be performed by a midwife, nurse practitioner or even the patient. When using mifepristone and misoprostol, the pregnant woman can perform the abortion in the comfort of her own home.

What Else Can Be Expected

Abortions can cause cramping, bleeding, blood clots, nausea, vomiting, fever, diarrhea, chills and fatigue. In rare situations, it can cause infertility, infections and even death.