What Is Abortion (Termination of Pregnancy)?
An abortion, also called termination of pregnancy, is a medical procedure that ends a pregnancy by removing the pregnancy tissue from the uterus (womb). It can be done with medicines (often called “abortion pills”) or with a small surgical procedure. The choice of method depends on how many weeks pregnant someone is, their health, and what the doctor advises. The goal is to safely end the pregnancy and protect the person’s health.
Abortion is a common medical service and can be used for different reasons, like unplanned pregnancy, health concerns, or personal choice. Most abortions happen in the first trimester (early weeks of pregnancy). Both medical and surgical methods are safe when done under the care of trained healthcare professionals.
Purpose & Benefits of Abortion
● Ends an unwanted or unplanned pregnancy
● Helps protect physical health when pregnancy causes risk
● Offers a legal and safe option under medical supervision
● Prevents complications of continuing an unsafe pregnancy
● Can be done early to reduce health risks and recovery time
Who May Need an Abortion?
● People with unplanned pregnancy
● Pregnant people with health conditions that make pregnancy risky
● Cases where fetal abnormalities are diagnosed
● Situations of sexual assault or rape
● Patients who cannot continue a pregnancy for personal reasons
Types of Abortion
Medical abortion uses medicines (most often a combination of mifepristone and misoprostol) to end a pregnancy, usually in the early weeks (up to about 10–12 weeks). The first medicine blocks hormones needed for pregnancy, and the second makes the uterus contract so the pregnancy tissue passes out of the body. Some people can take these medicines at home under a doctor's guidance
2. Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion is a procedure done by a doctor in a clinic or hospital. A tool is gently placed through the cervix (opening of the uterus), and suction or instruments are used to remove the pregnancy tissue. It is usually done after about 7 weeks of pregnancy and up to around 14 weeks or more, depending on health and local guidelines.
Abortion Procedure: Step by Step
1. Medical Abortion:
● You meet a healthcare provider and confirm the pregnancy.
● The doctor prescribes the first medicine (mifepristone).
● After 1–2 days, you take the second medicine (misoprostol).
● The pregnancy tissue passes through the vagina, usually within hours.
● You may need a follow-up to make sure the process is complete.
2. Surgical Abortion:
● A health check and ultrasound may be done before the procedure.
● Local anesthetics, sedation, or general anesthetic is given.
●The cervix is gently opened.
● Suction or a small tool removes pregnancy tissue from the uterus.
● The procedure normally takes just a few minutes, and you go home the same day.
Recovery & Aftercare
After an abortion, many people have:
● Vaginal bleeding and spotting for a few days to several weeks
● Cramping similar to period pain
● Mild nausea, tiredness, or discomfort
Most people feel physically better within a few days, but bleeding and cramps can last longer. You should follow your doctor’s advice on rest, pain relief, and care. Avoid inserting anything into the vagina (like tampons) and avoid sexual intercourse for about 2–3 weeks to reduce infection risk. Contraception can start soon after an abortion, as pregnancy can happen again quickly.
Emotions after abortion can vary. Feeling relief, sadness, or mixed emotions is normal. If your feelings are hard to handle, talk to a counsellor or trusted person.
Risks & Possible Complications
Abortion procedures are generally safe, but like all medical procedures, they carry some risks:
● Bleeding: heavier bleeding can occur, but is rare
● Incomplete abortion: some tissue may remain and need treatment
● Infection: signs include fever and bad-smelling discharge
● Uterine or cervix injury: rare but possible in surgical procedures
● Allergic reactions to medication
If you have very heavy bleeding, severe pain that doesn’t improve, fever, or signs of infection, contact your doctor immediately.
Abortion vs Other Pregnancy Options
Abortion (termination) ends a pregnancy by removing the pregnancy tissue from the uterus. This is a planned medical service done under care.
Miscarriage (spontaneous abortion) happens naturally when a pregnancy ends on its own before the 20th week. It does not involve a deliberate medical procedure.
Continuing pregnancy means carrying to term and giving birth, which is a different health process with its own supports and risks.
Your healthcare provider can help explain all options and what is best for your health and situation.
Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Maternity Services
Gynecology
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Veterinary
Maternal-Fetal Medicine
