Medical termination of
Pregnancy (MTP) is a medical name for abortions. Many women undergo this process due to unavailability of support and strength andavailability of advanced medical care and newer medicines. However we should not forget that such terminations will have consequences later. The consequences could range from pain in abdomen, pelvic infections,
vaginal discharge, disturbed
menstruation, psychiatric illnesses,
infertility and even death. Psychiatric illnesses like mood swings,
depression, suicidal tendency, psychotic symptoms, delusions, insecurity, etc after an abortion are not just seen in the mother but are also seen frequently in other family members and health professionals involved in it.
Surgical abortion is a procedure that involves the removal of the pregnancy from the uterus through various techniques such as suction curettage, dilation and curettage (D&C), dilation and evacuation (D&E), and manual vacuum aspiration (MVA). It is usually done in a clinic or hospital setting by a qualified healthcare provider. Both surgical and medicinal abortions can also cause severe spasm like pain in abdomen, incomplete abortion and infections alongwith phychiatric issues.
Here I can provide information on alternatives to abortions. It's important to note that any decision regarding pregnancy termination should be made in consultation with friends and family members as they may provide support in getting the baby into this world. Qualified healthcare professionals can provide personalized medical advice based on the individual's specific health condition and circumstances.
- Adoption: If a woman does not wish to continue with the pregnancy, she may choose to carry the pregnancy to term and give birth, then place the baby for adoption. Adoption is a legal process where the biological parents transfer their parental rights and responsibilities to an adoptive family.
- Parenting: Some women may choose to continue with the pregnancy and become a parent. This may involve raising the child as a single parent, co-parenting with a partner, or involving other family members or supportive individuals in the child's upbringing.
- Supportive Care: Depending on the individual's circumstances and reasons for considering an abortion, they may choose to explore supportive care options such as counselling, mental health support, financial assistance, and community resources to help them cope with the challenges of an unplanned pregnancy and make an informed decision about their pregnancy outcome.
- Emergency Contraception: If pregnancy termination is being considered due to a recent contraceptive failure or unprotected sexual intercourse, emergency contraception (commonly known as the "morning-after pill") may be an option. Emergency contraception is a type of birth control that can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, but it should be taken as soon as possible after intercourse for maximum effectiveness.
- In many unplanned pregnancies, this woman already has one or two kids and doesnot wish to have more babies. In this case, one should consider the option of tubectomy and vasectomy, which is surgical procedure to prevent pregnancy in future forever. There are other safe methods of contraception like intrauterine device and hormonal contraceptives.
It's important to remember that the availability and legality of different options for pregnancy termination may vary by country, state, or jurisdiction, and it's crucial to consult a qualified healthcare professional for accurate and up-to-date information. Abortion should always be an option of last resort. Healthcare Professionals should also not provide it as a easily available resource. 24 hours online doctor is available here to provide support in case of unplanned pregnancies.
Written by Dr Vaishalee Punj