Abortion & bull; hello healthy

Definition

What is an abortion?

Abortion or termination of pregnancy is a procedure performed to end a pregnancy prematurely. In some countries, abortion is considered legal and women are allowed to have an abortion before their pregnancy is more than 24 weeks. In Indonesia, abortion is considered illegal unless it is approved by a doctor based on certain medical reasons or considerations, for example the physical and psychological conditions of pregnancy complications that can endanger the life of the mother.

Precautions & warnings

What are the methods of abortion?

Early medical procedure (up to 9 weeks)

This procedure adopts the natural miscarriage process and is performed at 9 weeks or earlier. This procedure begins with the administration of mifepristone tablets which will reduce the level of pregnancy hormones. Two days later, the patient will be given 4 prostaglandin tablets. This medicine can cause the uterus (womb) to shed the embryo. Similar to menstruation, this process is accompanied by bleeding and stomach cramps. Painkillers and anti-nausea tablets can be given to treat this problem.

Vacuum aspiration procedure (up to week 14)

This procedure uses a device in the form of a suction tube to remove the embryo through the vagina. Usually, this procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes less than 10 minutes. Patients may experience some symptoms of pain and discomfort such as menstruation.

Medical termination (from week 13)

This method is similar to an early medical procedure. Usually the patient will be given several doses of prostaglandins directly by mouth and vagina. The patient will be hospitalized for about two days. The doctor will discuss the appropriate pain reliever medication for the patient.

Dilatation and evacuation surgery (D&E) (from week 14)

Dilation and evacuation surgery are usually performed under general anesthesia and take less than 20 minutes. This procedure involves emptying the uterus through the vagina using a special tube and instrument.

Process

What complications can occur?

For any type of termination, common complications that can occur are:

pain, which can usually be controlled with painkillers

bleeding, such as menstruation

blood clotting

infection

the pregnancy continues, requiring another procedure

psychological problems

For final medical termination, there is also the risk of retained placenta or other procedures required to empty the uterus.

For dilatation and evacuation surgery, the risks of complications include:

➢ a hole in the uterus which may damage nearby structures

➢ damage to the cervix

If the information you get is unclear, discuss the risk of this complication with your doctor.

Complications

How fast is the recovery process after the abortion?

After surgery, you are allowed to go home the same day, except in some cases of termination, you will need to spend the night in the hospital. Rest at home for one to two days and take painkillers if needed. For a few days, you may feel cramping and bleeding like when having a period. You can discuss with your doctor or medical staff the need for contraception, antibiotics, or injections if your blood type has a negative rhesus. The abortion that has been performed should not affect the patient's fertility. However, if the pregnancy returns, the patient has an increased risk of preterm birth. Some women become emotional after having an abortion. If these feelings persist or persist for too long, be sure to tell your doctor.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.