What Is Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP)?
Getting unwanted news that you are pregnant or being told by a medical professional that you need to end a pregnancy for medical reasons is a stream of bad news. There is a lot and it can seem scary to figure out what an individual is allowed to do, what steps are available to them and what is considered safe.
MTP or Medical Termination of Pregnancy is one of the many legally recognised procedures that is done under medical supervision, which aids in giving women control over their reproductive health. MTP is safe, confidential, and even time sensitive.
This blog intends to cover all the relevant information regarding Medical Termination of Pregnancy. This includes the various methods available, the process to be done in India, steps to complete the procedure, possible side effects and healing, subsequent fertility, and the necessary time frames to reach out to a medical professional.
What Is Medical Termination of Pregnancy?
Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) is a type of medical procedure that is completed by a certified medical professional. Miscarriages may happen naturally, but in the case of MTP, intentional surgical/mechanical methods are used to protect the woman’s health.
MTP can be done by one of two different options: either through the use of a prescription (medications) or through a surgical intervention (mini procedure). MTP’s mission is to protect the woman’s health in the long run by ensuring that subsequent pregnancies are possible, providing future intact reproductive health, and guaranteeing the woman's privacy.
When Is Medical Termination of Pregnancy Recommended?
There can be several reasons to recommend a Medical Termination of Pregnancy. Some of these reasons can be unplanned or unwanted pregnancy, failed methods of contraception, or a pregnancy that threatens the woman’s physical or mental well-being
There can be situations that recommend MTP for fetal anomalies/abnormalities or medical conditions threatening the life of the mother. It is a personal decision and has to be taken with appropriate medical advice, counselling, and informed consent.
Types of Medical Termination of Pregnancy
The medical termination of pregnancy can be done using different techniques. The techniques mainly depend on the number of weeks into pregnancy and the condition of the pregnant woman herself.
Medical abortion: This is usually recommended in early pregnancy as medicines recommended by doctors are used to end the pregnancy safely by causing the uterus to contract and expel the tissue of the pregnancy. This has to be done under the guidance of a doctor.
Surgical abortion: This method is recommended when pregnancy is more advanced or medical methods are not suitable. This is a brief, regulated procedure carried out by a trained medical doctor within a certified medical institution.
Both of these are safe with the involvement of qualified healthcare professionals.
How Is Medical Termination of Pregnancy Performed?
The process of Medical Termination begins with a consultation to discuss the details. The physician confirms with an examination and an ultrasound the duration of the pregnancy and reviews the patient’s medical history. Before taking consent, the physician explains the procedure and the available options to the patient.
For medical abortion, prescriptions and instructions are provided along with supervision and monitoring, and a follow-up appointment.
For surgical abortion, the procedure is done in a proper medical environment with the use of safe and approved methods. It is usually short and is followed by post-operative care to ensure proper recovery.
Side Effects, Risks, and Recovery After MTP
Most women feel okay after going through an abortion, especially if it is done safely. Some women can also expect some short-term side effects.
These effects may include:
- Tummy aches or soreness in the lower back
- Bleeding that is about as heavy as a normal period
- Feeling sick or tired
- Mild chill or Fever for a short time
- Feeling sick or tired
These risks can happen (but usually won’t happen if the procedure is done safely):
- Too much bleeding or bleeding for a long time
- Getting sick
- Having to get a second abortion because the first one didn’t work
Severe pain, heavy bleeding, a high fever, or a gross smell coming from the body. After an abortion, most women have to go to the ER.
Can MTP Affect Future Fertility?
When performed safely by trained doctors, Medical Termination of Pregnancy does not affect future fertility. The reproductive organs recover normally, allowing women to conceive again when they choose.
Achieving problems relate to the risks of being in an unregulated or late abortion. This gives more reason to receive the appropriate treatment from an accredited doctor to safeguard one’s future in the ability to conceive.
Conclusion
Considering the medical termination of pregnancy may be a safe and legally protective procedure.
An understanding of the steps, options, recuperation, and future ability to conceive assists women in the most informed decision-making, devoid of fear and ambiguity. Consulting, informational support, and medical care are the most vital to the physical and emotional well-being
For women requiring reproductive health care and confidentiality, SCI IVF Hospital is among the foremost IVF Center in India, with advanced facilities, a team of seasoned specialists, and a patient-centred approach to support women in every facet of their reproductive journey.
