First Trimester Abortion: Procedure, Types, Risks and Recovery

First Trimester Abortion Cost

The cost of a first-trimester abortion in India can be different for everyone, depending on the part of the country they’re in. The average cost of abortion in India typically ranges between Rs.5,000 to Rs.35,000. The cost may be on the higher side in the metropolitan cities and comparatively low in other cities. In addition to the location of the patients, several other factors can also impact the cost of first-trimester abortion in India. 

The type of abortion procedure used, the doctor’s fees, the cost of diagnostic tests, and the cost of any additional medical procedures can also cause the procedure costs to soar. To be financially prepared for the procedure, the patients must get the estimated procedure cost right at the beginning. This can help prevent any financial stress later on.

Insurance Coverage for First Trimester Abortion

In India, abortion procedures typically aren’t covered under insurance. The patients have to bear the cost of the procedure on their own, irrespective of the type of abortion procedure. Abortion is typically excluded from insurance coverage as most women choose to get it done for personal reasons and not as a medically necessary procedure. 

However, in cases where an abortion is necessary for medically necessary reasons, such as there’s a risk to the child and mother’s health or fetal abnormalities are present, the procedure may be covered. It is best to reach out to the insurance provider to obtain clarity on whether or not the abortion in your respective case will be covered under insurance. They will give you clarity on the coverage.

Know more: Is Abortion Covered under Insurance?

Recovery after First Trimester Abortion

Most women experience severe bleeding cramping as the body expels pregnancy tissue after a first-trimester abortion. It is a normal part of the process. When the tissue is fully expelled, typically within a few days, individuals can carry on with their routines but after taking some precautions. After a dilation and curettage procedure, some bleeding and pain might occur and may last a couple of days. Menstrual periods may occur even after a few weeks of the abortion. Listed below are some important post-abortion care tips for women after a pregnancy termination:

• Do not ignore your doctor’s post-abortion instructions and follow them diligently. Instructions may include taking prescribed medications, using sanitary pads instead of tampons to reduce infection risks, and following activity restrictions such as avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous exercises.
• Give your body the time to heal by taking it easy and refraining from physically demanding activities. Adequate rest is crucial for a smoother recovery.
• If necessary, take pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as directed by the doctor, to manage mild cramping and discomfort. If pain continues or becomes worse, discuss it with your healthcare provider.
• Keep a check on your bleeding, which can be similar to a heavy period and may be present for several days or up to two weeks. If sudden, heavy bleeding or the presence of significant clots occurs, immediate contact with your healthcare provider is necessary. 
• Seek emotional support from friends, family, or support groups, as abortion can evoke various emotions. Professional counseling or therapy is an option for those struggling to process their feelings or seeking coping strategies.
• Do not indulge in sexual intercourse for a few weeks after the healthcare provider’s guidance to minimize infection risks and allow the body to heal.
• Discuss birth control options with your healthcare provider to prevent future unintended pregnancies and ensure reproductive health.
• Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled to monitor your recovery progress and detect any potential complications.

Risks and Complications Associated with First Trimester Abortion

A first-trimester abortion, although safe, also carries a risk of complications. Several complications can occur in both medical and surgical abortions. It is important to understand the complications associated with the procedure for timely and effective management. Find below some risks and complications associated with first-trimester abortions: 

• Incomplete Abortion: This is a possible risk associated with a first trimester abortion, especially in the case of medical abortions. In cases of incomplete abortions, the doctors have to perform an additional procedure to extract the tissue remaining in the uterus. Symptoms of an incomplete abortion include excessive bleeding and pelvic pain. 
• A perforation in the uterus: In case of surgical abortions, there’s a risk of accidental perforation or puncturing of the uterus. In case of uterine perforation, the patient may be required to undergo another procedure for repair. 
• Profuse Bleeding: The risk of excessive bleeding persists in the case of both medical and surgical abortions. While heavy bleeding is normal after an abortion and typically stops in a few days, profuse and prolonged bleeding can be a sign of complication. 
• Infection: Infections can happen after an abortion, especially if bacteria enters the body during the surgery. Some symptoms of an infection include fever, chills, unusual vaginal discharge, and abdominal pain. If left untreated, infections can lead to serious health issues.
• Organ damage: Surgical instruments used in D&C procedures might cause damage to the surrounding organs. The organs may include the bladder or intestines. 
• Anesthesia-Related Complications: Anesthesia is generally used during a surgical abortion. With anesthesia usage, there persists a risk of adverse reactions or complications. These risks are generally low but can vary based on the individual’s health.
• Blood Clots: Blood clots can form in the uterus after an abortion, leading to cramping, pain, and heavy bleeding. These clots might need medical attention for the prevention of severe complications.
• Emotional and Psychological Reactions: Abortions can also have an emotional impact on the woman undergoing it.. While they are a normal part of the process for some people, they should be addressed and supported when found. 
• Issues with fertility: Most women who get an abortion in the first trimester, do not face fertility issues. But, in certain scenarios it may trigger fertility issues. It’s essential for patients to receive proper medical care and follow-up to prevent further issues.

How to Choose the Best Clinic for Safe Abortion in the First Trimester?

It is incredibly important for patients considering an abortion to only get it at a clinic that’s licensed and has doctors with the skills and expertise to carry out abortion procedures. With some research, patients can find the best clinic for first trimester abortion and have a safe abortion journey. Here’s how you can look for the best abortion clinic for your first trimester abortion: 

• Make a list of the clinics you’re considering: You can research the best abortion clinics near you and make a list. 
• Compare the facilities: Go through the websites of the clinics or call them to understand the services and facilities they provide. Then, compare the facilities offered at these clinics. 
• Check out the reviews:  A great way to find a good abortion clinic is researching patient reviews. Patient reviews help get personalized accounts of people who have received treatment at the same clinic. Patient reviews are readily available on several websites. 
• Research their panel of doctors: Check out the doctors who practice at these clinics. Research their panel to understand what kind of doctors they have, and how qualified and experienced they are. 
• Treatment cost: It’s also good to get an understanding of the cost of abortion at the respective clinics. By doing so, you can ensure you’re paying the right amount for your abortion. 
• Visit the clinic: Visit the clinic to check out its infrastructure. How well-maintained the clinic will also speaks volumes about the quality of care you’ll most likely receive.

First Trimester Abortion - What MTP Act Says?

In India, women reserve the right to get their pregnancy terminated in the first trimester and up to 20 weeks gestation. if the doctor considers them fit for an abortion. However, certain conditions do apply, including: 

• An abortion can only be performed if there is a risk to the life of the mother or the child is born with severe abnormalities.
• The consent of the woman or her legal guardian (if the individual is minor or has mental abnormalities) is necessary. 

Abortion can be done if the pregnancy has resulted due to rape or incest, and if there’s a risk to the physical or mental health of the woman, or if the child is born with severe abnormalities.

Registered medical practitioners with specific qualifications are allowed to to perform abortions in India. It should be noted that the MTP Act is a federal law. But, individual states may have their own laws regarding abortion. Some states may impose additional restrictions on abortion, such as mandatory counseling, waiting periods, or parental consent.

It’s important to note that abortion laws are subject to change, and individuals seeking an abortion should consult with a healthcare provider or legal professional for the most latest information on this stance.