Understanding The Limitations Of Medical Abortions

Medical abortion refers to the termination of pregnancy using medication instead of surgical procedures. The most common method of medical abortion is the combination of Mifepristone (RU486) and Misoprostol (Cytotec).

Mifepristone (RU486) works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the pregnancy to continue. This medication causes the uterus to contract, thereby expelling the pregnancy.

Misoprostol (Cytotec) is used to soften the cervix and stimulate contractions, thereby completing the abortion process.

Limitations of Medical Abortions Include:

Accessibility: Medical abortions may not be available in all areas, and access may be restricted by laws and regulations.

Timing: Medical abortions are typically performed within a certain time frame, typically up to 11 to 12 weeks from the last menstrual period as an outpatient procedure.

However, medical abortions can also be performed in the second trimester of pregnancy (14 to 24 weeks) and late-term (24.1 weeks or later) as an in-clinic procedure.

The Medical Literature has shown that early abortions can be performed medically even when the location of the pregnancy cannot be seen under sonography.

In such cases, a serial quantitative HCG measurement may be used to ensure that the pregnancy is not ectopic.

Contraindications Using Abortion Pill Medications;

There are certain contraindications for using Mifepristone and Cytotec, including an ectopic pregnancy, severe bleeding disorders, and an allergy to the medication.

Women who have a history of heart disease, liver disease, chronic use of steroids, immunodeficient, adrenal gland problems, ect., should also consult with their healthcare provider before using these medications.

Side Effects:

Medical abortions are generally considered safe, but there are potential complications and side effects to be aware of. These may include heavy bleeding, abdominal pain, and cramping, as well as nausea, vomiting, fever and diarrhea.

In some cases, medical abortions may also lead to an incomplete abortion, which may require a surgical procedure to remove any remaining tissue.

Follow-Up Care:

A follow-up visit with the healthcare provider 3 to 4 weeks after the medical abortion is recommended to ensure that the abortion was successful and that there are no ongoing complications.

During this visit, a pregnancy test may be performed, and the healthcare provider may check for any remaining pregnancy tissue.

It is not always necessary to follow up with the healthcare provider after a medical abortion if the pregnancy test is negative and the woman is not experiencing any complications.

In Conclusion

Medical abortions are a safe and effective method of ending pregnancy during the first, second trimester and late term (3 to 24 weeks or further).

Although there are potential complications and side effects the incidence is less than 1% and can be managed with the support of your medical abortion staff.

Women should take a pregnancy test 4 weeks after the procedure to assure it is negative. If it remains positive, it may represent retained pregnancy tissue, a new pregnancy or residual pregnancy hormone.

A follow-up with your healthcare provider after the medical abortion is important to ensure that the abortion was successful, co consider birth control and address any other concerns.

The Fort Lauderdale Women’s Center is Offering The One Hour Abortion Pill Procedure – 3 to 14 Weeks. Patients who qualify may receive a significant discount in the price of the procedure if they meet certain criteria.

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Dr James S Pendergraft | Orlando Women’s Center | Abortion Pill Clinic | Articles On Abortion