Types of Abortion
The types of abortion are divided into two categories- medical and surgical. The type of abortion is chosen depending on the duration of the pregnancy. For the first 10 weeks, medical abortion can be performed safely. Up to 16 weeks, surgical abortion through vacuum aspiration is suggested. Other than vacuum aspiration, dilation and evacuation (D&E), dilation and curettage (D&C), or induction technique may also be used accordingly.Medical Abortion
Medical abortion is a procedure in which prescription drugs or medications are used to end a pregnancy. In this type of abortion, mifepristone, and misoprostol are commonly used. The mifepristone pill works by blocking the hormone progesterone, thereby hindering the growth of the fetus. The second pill detaches the fetus from the uterus and expels the pregnancy. Overall, the cost of medical abortion is Rs. 500 to Rs. 5,000 approx.
Medical abortion can be done up to 9-10 weeks of pregnancy. The first pill is given to the women by the healthcare provider at the clinic. The second pill can be taken at home or at the clinic. The doctor will provide you with clear instructions on how and when to take the abortion pill.
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion is the procedure that ends the unwanted pregnancy by surgically removing the fetus and placenta from the mother’s uterus. The procedure is usually carried out in a clinic or at a hospital.
It can be done in the following ways-
1: Vacuum Aspiration
Also known as suction aspiration, this method is used between 12 weeks to 16 weeks of pregnancy. A suction device is attached to a speculum and inserted into the uterus through the cervix. Then aspiration is done and the contents are suctioned out properly. It costs around Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 35,000.
2: Dilation & Evacuation (D&E)
The D&E method is used for abortion typically after the 14th week of pregnancy. The procedure involves dilating the cervix and emptying the uterus with a surgical instrument. The cost of D&E treatment ranges from Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 40,000.
3: Dilation & Curettage (D&C)
It is a similar procedure to D&E. The cervix is dilated and surgical tools are used to curette the fetus, placenta, uterine lining, and other tissues.
Surgical abortion usually requires hospitalization for at least 1 day and the recovery takes around 1 week. It also costs slightly more than D&E method, around Rs. 35,000 to Rs. 40,000.
FAQs
When a medical abortion is not recommended?
Medical abortion is not for everyone. This method won’t be recommended in the following scenarios-
- The pregnancy is ectopic, i.e., the fetus develops outside the uterus
- The woman is allergic to abortion pills- mifepristone or misoprostol
- If the woman has a bleeding disorder
- When an intrauterine device is implanted
- If the woman has severe liver, kidney, or lung disease
- If the woman has been taking corticosteroid drugs for a long time
Is abortion painful?
Medical and surgical abortion can be painful for the woman. During a medical abortion, the pills given for abortion result in excessive cramping and heavy bleeding due to which the woman has to bear slight pain. Surgical abortion is performed under general anesthesia. Hence, the surgery itself is not painful. However, once the anesthesia wears off, pain may arise as an after-effect due to cramping and bleeding.
Is it safe to use pain relief medications after abortion?
Yes. Normally, after abortion, the doctor prescribes pain medications, such as ibuprofen, Vicodin, Tylenol, etc. to help the woman relax and manage the pain and discomfort. It is advisable to avoid taking over-the-counter medications without consulting with the doctor.
What are factors that affect abortion surgery costs?
The various factors that affect the abortion surgery cost in India are-
- Technique used for abortion
- Surgeon’s fee
- Duration of pregnancy
- Hospitalization
- Post-surgery consultation and tests
How long does the bleeding last after abortion?
Women usually experience heavy bleeding for several hours after medical abortion. The bleeding continues like period or menstruation for one or two weeks. In the case of surgical abortion, the bleeding is light and lasts up to 2 weeks.
Is it mandatory to have a family member during an abortion?
For adults, it is not mandatory to have a family member present during the abortion. However, for women below under 18, it is important to have a family member, specifically a legal guardian to get an abortion.
What are the side effects of abortion?
Whether a medical or surgical abortion is performed, the following side effects can occur-
- Bleeding
- Cramps
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Low-grade fever
- Headache
Is it necessary to have a post-abortion test?
Yes. Generally, the doctor will ask the woman to get an ultrasound done after two weeks of confirming the expulsion of the fetus. This is to ensure that no residual tissues are left that can affect the woman’s health.
Insurance Coverage of Abortion
Medical abortion cost is not covered under health insurance. However, surgical abortion cost may get covered under certain circumstances. The women who choose to undergo surgical abortion may or may not have a medical reason. Surgical abortion will be covered when it is medically required, otherwise, the patient has to pay for the procedure personally.
Get in touch with a certified gynecologist and have a detailed discussion about abortion procedures and their costs. Book an appointment for free and learn more about the specifics of abortion.
