What is Medical Abortion: Purpose, Procedure, Results & Costs in India

In India, healthcare is evolving, placing greater emphasis on informed choices and accessible information. For many women, understanding their reproductive health options is paramount. Among these, medical abortion stands out as a safe, legal, and increasingly preferred method for terminating an unwanted pregnancy in its early stages. Guided by the progressive Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971, and its significant amendment in 2021, women in India now have robust legal backing for making these deeply personal decisions.

This comprehensive guide aims to demystify medical abortion, providing clear, accurate, and empathetic information. We will delve into what it entails, why it might be chosen, the preparation involved, the procedure itself, what to expect regarding results and potential risks, and the associated costs in India. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge, ensuring that if you or someone you know considers this option, it's done with complete understanding and confidence, always under professional medical supervision.

What is Medical Abortion?

Medical abortion, often referred to as a "medication abortion" or "abortion with pills," is a non-surgical method used to terminate an early pregnancy using specific medications. Unlike surgical abortion, it doesn't involve instruments or anesthesia, making it a less invasive option for many women. This method is generally recommended for pregnancies in their early stages, typically up to 9 weeks (63 days) of gestation from the last menstrual period.

The procedure fundamentally works by mimicking a natural miscarriage. It involves a combination of two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol, which are taken orally or administered in other ways under strict medical guidance. These medications work together to stop the pregnancy's development and then prompt the uterus to expel its contents.

Key Characteristics of Medical Abortion:

• Non-Invasive: It does not require any surgical instruments, incisions, or general anesthesia.
• Privacy and Confidentiality: For many, the ability to undergo the process in the comfort and privacy of their own home (after initial medical consultation and medication administration) is a significant advantage.
• Effectiveness: When administered correctly and with high-quality drugs, medical abortion boasts a success rate of 95% to 98%.
• Early Pregnancy Option: It is most effective and safest for pregnancies in their first trimester, specifically up to 9 weeks of gestation.
• Legal Framework: In India, medical abortion is a legal and regulated procedure under the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971, which was further liberalized by the 2021 amendment. This legislation ensures women have the right to access safe abortion services under specified circumstances.

The MTP Act, 2021, expanded the access to safe abortion services, increasing the gestation limit for certain categories of women and making the process more inclusive. It underscores the Indian government's commitment to women's reproductive rights and health. Choosing medical abortion is a significant medical decision, and understanding its nature, benefits, and requirements is crucial for a safe and positive experience.

Why is Medical Abortion Performed?

The decision to undergo a medical abortion is deeply personal and often arises from a complex interplay of circumstances. In India, the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971, and its progressive 2021 amendment, provide legal grounds for women to opt for medical termination of pregnancy under various circumstances, ensuring their health, well-being, and autonomy are protected.

The primary purpose of medical abortion is to safely and legally terminate an unwanted pregnancy. The law recognises several valid reasons for this choice, reflecting a compassionate and practical approach to reproductive healthcare:

• Accidental Conception: Many pregnancies occur unintentionally, even with the use of contraception. When a pregnancy is not planned or desired, medical abortion offers a safe pathway to terminate it.
• Risk to Woman's Life or Health:
  • Physical Health: If continuing the pregnancy poses a significant risk to the woman's physical health, such as exacerbating pre-existing medical conditions (e.g., severe heart disease, kidney failure, uncontrolled diabetes), medical termination may be advised by doctors.
  • Mental Health: The MTP Act explicitly recognises the impact of pregnancy on a woman's mental health. If continuing the pregnancy could cause grave injury to her mental well-being, leading to severe distress, anxiety, or depression, abortion is a legal option. This often includes situations where the woman feels overwhelmed, unsupported, or unable to cope with motherhood.
• Fetal Abnormalities: If there is a substantial risk that the child, if born, would suffer from serious physical or mental abnormalities, medical abortion can be chosen. This often involves diagnoses made through prenatal screening tests, indicating conditions that could severely impact the child's quality of life or result in a short life expectancy.
• Pregnancies Resulting from Rape or Incest: These are traumatic circumstances where the pregnancy is a direct consequence of a crime. The MTP Act specifically allows for termination in such cases, acknowledging the profound physical and psychological distress caused to the survivor. For these categories, the upper gestation limit for termination can be extended up to 24 weeks.
• Contraceptive Failure: Pregnancy occurring despite the use of a contraceptive method (like condoms, IUDs, or birth control pills) is a legally valid reason for medical termination. This acknowledges that no contraceptive method is 100% effective and supports responsible family planning. The 2021 amendment specifically included "failure of any device or method used by any woman or her partner for the purpose of limiting the number of children or preventing pregnancy" as a valid ground.
• Change in Marital Status During Pregnancy: A significant amendment in 2021 included a provision for women whose marital status changes during an ongoing pregnancy (e.g., widowhood, divorce, or separation) to terminate the pregnancy up to 24 weeks. This acknowledges the socio-economic and emotional challenges that such changes can bring, impacting a woman's ability to raise a child.
• Minors: For minor girls, the consent of a guardian is required, and such cases also fall under specific provisions for extended gestation limits.
• Differently-abled Women: Women with disabilities, particularly mental illness, who may not be able to make informed decisions about their pregnancy, are also covered under specific provisions for extended gestation limits.

Beyond these legal grounds, medical abortion is considered a non-invasive method that offers a degree of confidentiality and comfort, as a significant part of the process can often be managed in a woman's own home, after receiving the medications and clear instructions from a qualified medical professional. This aspect contributes to its preference among many women seeking early pregnancy termination, provided they have adequate support and access to follow-up care.

The decision for a medical abortion is a healthcare choice, not a moral judgment. The Indian legal framework supports a woman's right to make this choice, ensuring access to safe and legal procedures under appropriate medical supervision.

Preparation for Medical Abortion

Proper preparation is not just important; it's absolutely essential for ensuring a safe, effective, and relatively smooth medical abortion experience. It involves a series of medical assessments, detailed discussions with a healthcare provider, and emotional and physical readiness. Rushing this stage or skipping any steps can lead to complications, highlighting the critical role of professional medical guidance.

Here’s a comprehensive look at what preparation entails:

1. Consultation and Medical Assessment

The journey begins with a confidential consultation with a qualified gynecologist or a registered medical practitioner (RMP) certified to perform medical terminations. This is a crucial first step where your doctor will:

• Conduct a Physical Examination: This helps assess your overall health and identify any potential issues that might affect the procedure.
• Take a Detailed Medical History: You'll be asked about your past health conditions, surgeries, allergies, and any chronic illnesses. Be open and honest about your medical background, including any heart conditions, blood clotting disorders, severe anemia, chronic adrenal failure, high blood pressure, kidney diseases, or if you're using long-term corticosteroids. These conditions can contraindicate medical abortion.
• Review Medication History: Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, herbal supplements, and recreational drugs. Some medications can interact negatively with abortion pills.

2. Confirming Pregnancy Details

Accurate confirmation of pregnancy details is paramount for the safety and success of medical abortion:

• Ultrasound Scan: An ultrasound is essential for two primary reasons:
  • Confirm Gestational Age: It precisely determines how far along the pregnancy is. Medical abortion is generally effective and safe only for pregnancies up to 9 weeks (63 days) of gestation. Beyond this period, the effectiveness decreases, and the risk of complications increases, making surgical abortion a more suitable option.
  • Rule Out Ectopic Pregnancy: This is a critical step. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube. Medical abortion pills are ineffective for ectopic pregnancies and can be dangerous, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment of a life-threatening condition.
• Blood and Urine Tests: Your doctor may order blood tests to check your blood group (important in case of heavy bleeding), hemoglobin levels (to assess for anemia), and sometimes to confirm pregnancy hormone levels. Urine tests may also be conducted.

3. Emotional and Physical Preparation

Medical abortion is a significant event, and preparing yourself emotionally and physically can make the process more manageable:

• Open Communication with Your Doctor: Do not hesitate to discuss any fears, anxieties, or questions you have about the procedure, pain management, or what to expect. Your doctor is there to provide support and information.
• Arranging for Rest and Care: The process involves cramping and bleeding, similar to a heavy period or miscarriage. Plan to have sufficient rest for at least 24-48 hours after taking the misoprostol.
• Having a Support Person: It is highly recommended to have a trustworthy person (partner, family member, friend) accompany you to the clinic and be available to support you at home during the process. They can provide emotional comfort and assist if any complications arise.
• Avoiding Certain Substances: Your doctor might advise avoiding alcohol or smoking for at least 48 hours before and during the abortion process, as these can interfere with recovery or medication efficacy.
• Pain Management: Discuss pain management options with your doctor. They may prescribe or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage the cramps you will experience.

4. Medication Instructions and Eligibility

Before you receive the medications, ensure you have a complete understanding of:

• How and When to Take the Medication: You will receive clear, detailed instructions on the dosage, timing, and method of administration for both mifepristone and misoprostol. Adhering strictly to these instructions is vital.
• What to Expect: Your doctor will explain the expected side effects, how to distinguish normal bleeding and cramping from potential complications, and when to seek immediate medical attention.
• Eligibility Criteria (Contraindications): Medical abortion is generally not recommended if:
  • The pregnancy is beyond 9 weeks (63 days) of gestation.
  • You are allergic to mifepristone or misoprostol.
  • You have an intrauterine device (IUD) in place (it must be removed before the procedure).
  • You suffer from blood clotting disorders or are on anticoagulant therapy.
  • You have severe anemia.
  • You have chronic adrenal failure.
  • You have high blood pressure, heart, or kidney diseases.
  • You are using long-term corticosteroids, as these can interfere with mifepristone's action.

Undergoing medical abortion without proper preparation and supervision from a certified abortion doctor significantly increases the risks of complications, including incomplete abortion, heavy bleeding, or infection. Unsupervised self-medication is strongly discouraged and contributes to unsafe abortion practices and increased maternal morbidity. Always choose a registered and qualified healthcare provider for this procedure.

The Medical Abortion Procedure

The medical abortion procedure is a carefully structured process involving two specific medications, designed to be safe and effective when followed under medical supervision. It is typically recommended for pregnancies up to 9 weeks (63 days) of gestation. Understanding each step can help you feel more prepared and in control.

Here's a detailed breakdown of the procedure:

Step 1: Mifepristone Administration

The first medication, mifepristone, is the cornerstone of medical abortion.

• Dosage and Method: A single 200 mg tablet of mifepristone is typically taken orally. This is administered under the direct supervision of your doctor at the clinic.
• How it Works: Mifepristone is an anti-progesterone medication. Progesterone is a hormone crucial for maintaining the uterine lining and supporting the early stages of pregnancy. By blocking progesterone receptors, mifepristone effectively:
  • Stops the growth of the embryo.
  • Causes the uterine lining to thin and detach from the embryo.
  • Softens the cervix, making it easier for the uterus to expel its contents later.
• What to Expect: After taking mifepristone, most women experience no immediate symptoms. Some might have mild spotting or light cramping, but significant bleeding or discomfort is uncommon at this stage. You can usually go home after taking this pill.

Step 2: Misoprostol Administration

The second medication, misoprostol, is taken after a specific interval following mifepristone.

• Timing: Approximately 24 to 48 hours after taking mifepristone, 400 mcg of misoprostol is administered. The timing is crucial to allow mifepristone to adequately prepare the uterus.
• Dosage and Method: Misoprostol can be administered in several ways, as advised by your doctor, to maximize absorption and effectiveness:
  • Buccally: Placing the tablets between the cheek and gums and allowing them to dissolve for about 30 minutes, then swallowing any remaining fragments with water.
  • Sublingually: Placing the tablets under the tongue and allowing them to dissolve for about 30 minutes, then swallowing any remaining fragments.
  • Vaginally: Inserting the tablets into the vagina. This method is often chosen for its effectiveness and slightly reduced systemic side effects like nausea.
• How it Works: Misoprostol is a prostaglandin analogue. It causes the uterus to contract strongly and the cervix to soften further and dilate. These contractions are essential for expelling the pregnancy tissue from the uterus, similar to a natural miscarriage or a heavy menstrual period.

Step 3: Expected Effects and Expulsion Process

This is when the active abortion process typically occurs.

• Onset of Symptoms: Within 0.5 to 6 hours after taking misoprostol, patients will usually begin to experience abdominal cramps and vaginal bleeding. The onset and intensity can vary, but most women will start to feel effects within a few hours.
• Cramping and Bleeding: The cramping can range from moderate to severe, often feeling much stronger than typical menstrual cramps. The bleeding will be heavier than a normal period and will likely include blood clots, which can sometimes be quite large (the size of a lemon or golf ball). Passing tissue is also common. This heavy bleeding and cramping are signs that the medication is working and the pregnancy is being expelled.
• Duration of Expulsion: The process of expelling the pregnancy tissue usually lasts 4 to 10 hours after misoprostol administration. However, significant bleeding and cramping can continue for several hours longer, and lighter bleeding may persist for several days to a few weeks.
• Managing Discomfort: Your doctor would have advised or prescribed pain relievers to manage the cramping. Applying a heating pad and resting can also help alleviate discomfort. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and chills are common side effects during this phase.

Step 4: Follow-up Appointment

A follow-up appointment is a non-negotiable and critical part of the medical abortion process.

• Timing: This appointment is usually scheduled within one to two weeks after taking misoprostol.
• Purpose: The primary goals of the follow-up are to:
  • Confirm Completion: The doctor will perform a physical examination and often an ultrasound to ensure that the abortion is complete and all pregnancy tissue has been expelled from the uterus.
  • Check for Complications: This visit allows the doctor to check for any retained tissue, signs of infection, or other complications.
  • Discuss Contraception: It's an opportune time to discuss future contraceptive options to prevent unintended pregnancies.
• Importance: Skipping the follow-up can be dangerous. If the abortion is incomplete, retained tissue can lead to prolonged bleeding, infection, and necessitate further medical intervention, such as a surgical procedure (suction evacuation).

Adherence to all medical instructions, careful monitoring of symptoms, and attending the follow-up appointment are crucial for a safe and successful medical abortion. Always contact your doctor immediately if you experience alarming symptoms, such as soaking more than two large pads per hour for over two hours, severe unrelenting pain, high fever, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge.

Understanding Results and Risks

Medical abortion, while highly effective and generally safe, comes with specific outcomes and potential risks that every individual should be aware of. Understanding these aspects is key to making an informed decision and knowing when to seek further medical attention.

Results of Medical Abortion

When properly administered with high-quality medications, medical abortion is a highly successful procedure:

• High Effectiveness Rate: Medical abortion has a success rate ranging from 95% to 98% for pregnancies up to 9 weeks (63 days) of gestation. This means that in the vast majority of cases, the pregnancy will be successfully terminated without the need for surgical intervention.
• Experience Similar to Miscarriage: The process of medical abortion closely mimics a natural miscarriage. You will experience abdominal cramps and bleeding, which will be heavier than a typical menstrual period. This bleeding often includes blood clots and the passage of tissue.
• Duration of Bleeding: Heavy bleeding and cramping usually subside once the products of conception have been passed, typically within 4 to 10 hours after taking misoprostol. However, it's common to experience lighter, unpredictable, irregular, or prolonged bleeding, similar to spotting, for up to four weeks afterward. This post-abortion bleeding gradually tapers off.
• Recovery and Resumption of Activities: Most individuals feel better and can resume their normal activities within a day or two after the heavy bleeding subsides. It is important to listen to your body and rest as needed.
• Return of Menstruation: Normal menstrual periods typically resume within 4 to 6 weeks after a medical abortion. Ovulation can occur as early as 2-3 weeks post-abortion, so it's possible to become pregnant again quickly. Discussing contraception with your doctor during the follow-up is highly recommended.

Risks of Medical Abortion

While generally safe, like any medical procedure, medical abortion carries potential risks and complications. It is crucial to be aware of these and to follow your doctor's instructions meticulously to minimize them.

• 1. Incomplete Abortion:

  • What it is: This occurs when some pregnancy tissue or products of conception remain in the uterus after the procedure.
  • Incidence: Approximately 2% to 5% of medical abortion users may experience an incomplete abortion.
  • Symptoms: Persistent heavy bleeding, prolonged cramping, fever, or signs of infection might indicate an incomplete abortion.
  • Treatment: If confirmed, an incomplete abortion may require a surgical procedure, such as suction evacuation (D&C), to clear the uterus and prevent further complications.

• 2. Heavy or Prolonged Bleeding:

  • What it is: While heavy bleeding is expected, excessive or prolonged bleeding can be a serious complication.
  • Symptoms: Soaking more than two large sanitary pads per hour for two consecutive hours or more, passing very large clots frequently, or feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or faint.
  • Treatment: This requires immediate medical attention and may, in rare cases, necessitate a blood transfusion or a surgical procedure to stop the bleeding.

• 3. Infection:

  • What it is: Though rare, infection of the uterus (endometritis) can occur, especially if some tissue is retained or if proper hygiene is not maintained.
  • Symptoms: Fever (above 100.4°F or 38°C), chills, severe abdominal pain, abnormal or foul-smelling vaginal discharge, or persistent nausea and vomiting.
  • Treatment: Infections typically require antibiotic treatment. Severe infections may necessitate hospitalization.

• 4. Failed Abortion (Ongoing Pregnancy):

  • What it is: In a small percentage of cases, the medical abortion may not work, and the pregnancy continues to develop.
  • Incidence: This happens in about 1% of cases.
  • Treatment: If the pregnancy continues, repeat medication or a surgical abortion (suction evacuation) will be necessary. Continuing a pregnancy after taking abortion pills carries a small risk of fetal abnormalities, so termination is usually recommended.

• 5. Other Common Side Effects:

  • Beyond cramping and bleeding, other side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and a mild fever or chills. These are usually temporary and manageable with supportive care.

• 6. Ectopic Pregnancy:

  • Why it's a risk: Medical abortion pills are ineffective and potentially dangerous for an ectopic pregnancy (where the pregnancy develops outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube). If an ectopic pregnancy is mistakenly treated with abortion pills, it can rupture, leading to severe internal bleeding and a life-threatening emergency.
  • Importance of Ultrasound: This highlights the crucial importance of a pre-abortion ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy is located within the uterus.

Minimizing Risks:

To minimize these risks, it is paramount to:

• Take medications exactly as prescribed: Do not alter dosages or timings.
• Undergo the procedure under the supervision of a certified abortion doctor: Never attempt self-medication or purchase pills from unregulated sources. This contributes significantly to unsafe abortions and increased maternal morbidity.
• Attend all follow-up appointments: This ensures the abortion is complete and any complications are detected and addressed promptly.
• Seek immediate medical attention for any concerning symptoms: Do not delay if you experience signs of heavy bleeding, severe pain, or infection.

By being fully informed about both the expected results and potential risks, individuals can approach medical abortion with confidence, knowing they are making a safe and responsible choice under professional guidance.

Costs in India

Understanding the financial aspects of medical abortion in India is an important part of the decision-making process. The cost can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the city, the type of clinic or hospital, the gestational age of the pregnancy, and whether it includes all necessary consultations and follow-up care. It's crucial to seek transparent information regarding costs upfront.

Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs associated with medical abortion in India:

1. Cost of Abortion Pills (MTP Kit)

• Retail Pharmacy Price: The medications used for medical abortion, typically available as an MTP (Medical Termination of Pregnancy) kit, consist of one mifepristone tablet and four misoprostol tablets. The cost of these abortion pills alone in a retail pharmacy in India usually ranges from ₹500 to ₹700. It's important to remember that these pills should never be purchased and consumed without a doctor's prescription and supervision.

2. Overall Medical Abortion Process Cost

The cost of the pills themselves is only one component. The complete medical abortion process, which includes professional medical services, will naturally be higher.

• Average Cost Range: The average price for the entire medical abortion treatment in India, encompassing initial consultation, necessary diagnostic tests (like ultrasound), the medications, and the crucial follow-up appointment, generally falls within a range of ₹1,500 to ₹7,000.
• Common Estimates:
  • Many sources indicate an overall cost for medical abortion, including consultation, medication, and follow-up, to be around ₹5,000.
  • Other estimates suggest a range from ₹2,750 on average, with variations from ₹500 (likely just the pills, without comprehensive care) up to ₹5,000 for a full package in private clinics.
• Factors Influencing Cost:
  • City/Location: Costs can be higher in metropolitan areas compared to smaller towns.
  • Type of Facility: Government hospitals and authorized primary health centers typically offer services at a lower cost or even free, while private clinics and larger private hospitals will have higher charges.
  • Gestational Age: While medical abortion is for early pregnancies, slight variations might exist if more extensive counseling or follow-up is deemed necessary.

3. Government-Approved Rates

• Standardized Rates: For medical abortion services, the government sets package rates to ensure affordability and accessibility. These rates, which include consultation and essential diagnostic tests like ultrasound, are often around ₹1,500 in government-approved facilities. These rates are designed to be affordable for a broad spectrum of the population.

4. Insurance Coverage

• Limited Coverage: Generally, most standard health insurance plans in India do not cover medical abortions. This is often due to the nature of it being an elective procedure.
• Exceptions: However, there is a significant exception: if the continuation of the pregnancy poses a serious risk to the mother's life, or if it's necessitated by other specific medical complications (e.g., severe fetal abnormality that threatens the mother's mental health), then the medical abortion might be covered under the "medical necessity" clause of some insurance policies. It is always advisable to check with your specific insurance provider regarding their terms and conditions.

5. Comparison with Surgical Abortion Costs

It's useful to understand that surgical abortion, which is often recommended for pregnancies beyond 9-10 weeks or in cases of failed medical abortion, is generally more expensive.

• Surgical Abortion Range: The costs for surgical abortion can range significantly, from ₹5,000 to ₹80,000, depending on the gestational age (first, second, or third trimester), the type of facility, the complexity of the procedure, and whether general anesthesia is used.

Important Note on Cost and Safety:

While cost is a consideration, it should never compromise safety. Opting for cheap, unregulated pills bought online or from unauthorized sources, or attempting self-medication without professional guidance, is extremely dangerous and can lead to severe complications, including incomplete abortion, hemorrhage, infection, and even death. Always seek services from a qualified, registered medical practitioner in an authorized facility to ensure a safe and legal medical abortion. The slightly higher cost for professional care is an investment in your health and safety.

How Ayu Helps

Ayu is dedicated to empowering your healthcare journey. With Ayu, you can securely manage your medical records, easily book consultations with qualified gynecologists, and access reliable health information, ensuring you make informed decisions about your reproductive health with confidence and privacy.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about medical abortion:

Q1: How effective is medical abortion? A1: Medical abortion is highly effective, with success rates between 95% to 98% when used correctly for pregnancies up to 9 weeks (63 days) of gestation.

Q2: Is medical abortion painful? A2: You will experience cramping and bleeding similar to a heavy menstrual period or a miscarriage. The pain level varies among individuals, but it can be intense. Your doctor can prescribe pain medication to help manage the discomfort.

Q3: How long does the bleeding last after a medical abortion? A3: Heavy bleeding and cramping typically occur for 4-10 hours after taking misoprostol. Lighter bleeding or spotting can then continue intermittently for up to four weeks.

Q4: Can I get pregnant immediately after a medical abortion? A4: Yes, ovulation can resume as early as 2-3 weeks after a medical abortion, meaning you can get pregnant again very quickly. It's crucial to discuss contraception options with your doctor during your follow-up appointment.

Q5: What are the warning signs that indicate I need immediate medical attention? A5: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Soaking more than two large sanitary pads per hour for two consecutive hours.
• Severe abdominal pain not relieved by medication.
• Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher that lasts for more than a few hours.
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
• Symptoms of pregnancy that continue after the procedure.

Q6: Is medical abortion safe for everyone? A6: No, medical abortion is not safe for everyone. It is generally not recommended if your pregnancy is beyond 9 weeks, if you have an ectopic pregnancy, an IUD in place, certain chronic medical conditions (like severe heart, kidney, or adrenal disease), or allergies to the medications. A thorough medical assessment by a qualified doctor is essential to determine eligibility.

Q7: Will a medical abortion affect my future fertility? A7: When performed safely under medical supervision and without complications, a medical abortion typically does not affect your future fertility or your ability to have children later.

Q8: What is the legal status of medical abortion in India? A8: Medical abortion is safe and legal in India, governed by the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971, and its significant amendment in 2021. This act specifies the conditions under which a pregnancy can be legally terminated by a registered medical practitioner.