Medical Abortion vs Surgical Abortion

Medical abortion and surgical abortion are two distinct ways of ending a pregnancy. Medical abortion uses medications like mifepristone and misoprostol to safely terminate a pregnancy, while surgical abortion involves the removal of the fetus and placenta using a suction tube. Both methods have benefits and risks, and women need to be fully informed before making a decision.

Medical abortion and surgical abortion are two distinct ways of ending a pregnancy. ... Read More

Book FREE Doctor Appointment

Anup Soni - the voice of Pristyn Care pointing to download pristyncare mobile app

Patient Name

Mobile Number

Select City

Call Us

We are rated

2 M+ Happy Patients

700+ Hospitals

45+ Cities

2M+

Happy Patients

50+

Disease

700+

Hospitals

45+

Cities

Free Consultation

Free Cab Facility

No-Cost EMI

Support in Insurance Claim

1-day Hospitalization

USFDA-Approved Procedure

How is Medical Abortion Done?

Medical abortion is a method used to terminate an early pregnancy, usually within the first 9 weeks, and this process relies on two medications mifepristone and misoprostol. Here’s how it works:

Mifepristone: A dose of 200 mg of mifepristone is taken orally on the first day. This medication blocks progesterone, a hormone crucial for the continuance of pregnancy.
Misoprostol: After 24-48 hours, the patient takes 800 mcg of misoprostol. It’s typically taken buccally (put between the cheek and gum) and left to dissolve for about half an hour.

Misoprostol stimulates contractions in the uterus to aid in the expulsion of pregnancy tissue. It can be taken with a success rate of about 95% up to 63 days into the pregnancy. For pregnancies beyond 9 weeks, taking at least two doses of misoprostol 3-4 hours apart is suggested for better results. This non-invasive method can often be performed at home, making it more accessible than surgical procedures.

Medical Abortion Surgery Cost Calculator

Fill details to get actual cost

How is Surgical Abortion Done?

The process of surgical abortion, a minimally invasive operation, involves removing the pregnancy from the womb. The entire procedure generally lasts 5 to 10 minutes and can take place in a clinic or hospital. Here are the steps involved:

Preparation:

Examination: A doctor confirms the pregnancy and checks if the person is a suitable candidate for the procedure.
Local Anaesthesia: To alleviate discomfort during the process, the cervix is numbed using a local anaesthetic.
Dilation: Thin metal rods are employed to dilate the cervix, allowing for the passage of a suction tube.
Speculum Insertion: A speculum is placed into the vagina to enable viewing of the cervix and uterus.

Procedure:

Vacuum Aspiration: Up to 14 weeks of pregnancy, a suction tube is inserted through the cervix into the uterus. Gentle suction removes pregnancy tissue.
Dilation and Evacuation (D&E): Beyond 14 weeks, D&E is opted for; special instruments known as forceps are inserted through the cervix into the womb to remove the pregnancy tissue. This method typically requires sedation or general anaesthesia.

Overall, surgical abortion is a safe and effective method for terminating a pregnancy, and women need to be fully informed about the procedure before making a decision.

Pros and Cons of Medical Abortion and Surgical Abortion

The process of abortion can be medical or surgical, with each having its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Medical Abortion:

Pros:

It’s a less invasive method, eliminating the need for anaesthesia or surgery.
It offers privacy as it can be done at home.
It allows the patient to have someone accompanying her during the process.
It reduces physical trauma connected with a surgical procedure.
Generally, it is less expensive than a surgical abortion.

Cons:

It has a higher failure rate compared to surgical abortion.
Greater pain and bleeding are common side effects.
It necessitates multiple clinic visits and takes longer (up to 10 days).
It might not be suitable if the patient is looking after young children or suffering from an uncontrolled anxiety disorder.
Someone should accompany the patient at home throughout the process.

Surgical Abortion:

Pros:

The procedure is quicker (around 10 minutes) requiring just one clinic visit.
There are fewer complications like infection, bleeding, and uterine perforation.
Pain and bleeding are typically less compared to medical abortion.
Patients can resume their normal activities sooner after the procedure.
This method provides greater certainty of a complete abortion.

Cons:

This method requires anaesthesia and an operation theatre visit, which some patients might find overly invasive.
Patients cannot have anyone accompany them during the procedure.
The cost is slightly higher compared to medical abortion.
There is a minor risk of complications such as uterine perforation, haemorrhage, and infection.
Patients cannot drive for 24 hours post-procedure.

Medical abortion offers more privacy and is non-invasive but carries higher risks and side effects. Surgical abortion is quicker with fewer risks but requires anaesthesia and a clinic visit. The choice depends on patient preferences and gestational age.

When is Medical Abortion or Surgical Abortion Done?

To understand when medical and surgical abortions are done, let’s break it down:

Medical Abortion:

This is usually done from 5 to 9 weeks (63 days) counting from the first day of your last menstrual period.
The procedure involves two sets of medication. Firstly, mifepristone is taken. Then, after a gap of 24-48 hours, misoprostol is administered. This leads to the detachment and expulsion of pregnancy tissue.

Surgical Abortion:

Surgical abortion can be undertaken up to 14 weeks into pregnancy. However, the exact timing depends on the rules in your state and the regulations at the clinic or hospital you visit.
For pregnancies between 12-14 weeks, additional steps may be required like using misoprostol to help dilate the cervix before proceeding.

Pristyn Care’s Free Post-Operative Care

Diet & Lifestyle Consultation

Post-Surgery Follow-Up

Free Cab Facility

24*7 Patient Support

Who can go for Medical Abortion or Surgical Abortion?

Let’s demystify who can opt for medical and surgical abortion procedures.

Medical Abortion:

This method is typically an option for those within nine weeks (63 days) of their last menstrual cycle.
A qualified doctor, nurse, or midwife must prescribe the required medication.
However, if you have certain health conditions such as bleeding disorders, or are on certain medications, a medical abortion might not be the most suitable choice.

Surgical Abortion:

Surgical abortion can be an option up to 14 weeks into a pregnancy. Bear in mind that this timeframe may vary depending on local laws and clinic policies.
You must consult a doctor for an examination before opting for this procedure under medical supervision.
Similar to medical abortions, surgical abortion may also not be suitable if you have specific health conditions like bleeding disorders or are on certain medications.

Remember, it’s essential to consult with your doctor before deciding which path is right for you.

What to Expect After Medical Abortion and Surgical Abortion?

Understanding the aftereffects of medical or surgical abortion can help you prepare for what lies ahead.

Medical Abortion:

Bleeding and Cramps: Post-abortion, you may experience bleeding, starting after the intake of the second medicine, misoprostol. This could last up to a fortnight. Cramping, more severe than menstrual cramps, may last for a few days.
Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage cramps. The pain level varies among individuals, particularly if you were pregnant for a longer duration or have a history of painful periods.
Self-Care: Adequate rest, staying hydrated and using a heating pad are useful techniques to alleviate cramps. Refrain from vigorous activities for a few days and resume your regular routine gradually.
Follow-up Care: Schedule an appointment to visit your doctor two weeks post-abortion to ensure normal healing and address any concerns you might have.

Surgical Abortion:

Bleeding and Cramps: Post-surgical abortion too, bleeding and cramping are common. While bleeding might be heavier initially, it should gradually decrease. Cramping can be intense and may last for several days.
Pain Management: To manage cramps, opt for ibuprofen or acetaminophen but avoid aspirin-based medicines as they might enhance bleeding.
Self-Care: Similar to medical abortion, ample rest, hydration and the use of heating pads can help manage cramps. Avoid any strenuous activities for some days and slowly get back to your everyday tasks.
Follow-up Care: Visit your doctor two weeks after the procedure ensure normal recovery and discuss any concerns.

In rare cases, complications such as haemorrhage indicating incomplete abortion requiring further treatment; fever signalling infection treatable with antibiotics; and injury to the uterus or cervix during the procedure necessitating additional surgery or treatment, may arise. In case of any complications, immediate medical attention is advisable.

Comparison Table Between Medical Abortion and Surgical Abortion

Here is a comparison table summarizing the key differences between medical abortion and surgical abortion:

Comparison	Medical Abortion	Surgical Abortion
Procedure	Uses medications (mifepristone and misoprostol) to terminate the pregnancy	Involves a minor surgical procedure to remove the pregnancy tissue from the uterus
Timing	This can be done up to 9 weeks (63 days) of pregnancy	This can be done up to 14 weeks of pregnancy, depending on laws and clinic policies
Setting	This can be done at home, with some clinic visits	Done in a clinic or hospital setting
Duration	Typically takes 1-2 days to complete the process	The procedure itself takes about 10 minutes, but the total visit time is around 3-5 hours
Invasiveness	Non-invasive, no surgery or anaesthesia required	Minimally invasive, done under local anaesthesia or sedation
Effectiveness	Success rate around 95-97%	Success rate around 97-99%
Recovery	Typically involves more bleeding and cramping at home	Usually less bleeding and cramping compared to medical abortion

FAQs

Is there a difference in cost between medical and surgical abortions?

Yes, medical abortion is much cheaper than surgical abortion. The cost can further vary widely based on location and healthcare provider, but medical abortions may be less expensive due to fewer clinical visits and procedure costs.

How do medical and surgical abortions compare in terms of effectiveness?

Both methods are highly effective when performed correctly. Medical abortions are approximately 95-98% effective, while surgical abortions also have a high success rate.

Do medical and surgical abortions have different emotional impacts?

Emotional experiences can vary widely among individuals, but both medical and surgical abortions can be emotionally challenging. Counselling and support services are available for both options.

Are there legal considerations that affect access to medical vs surgical abortions?

Legal restrictions and regulations may affect access to both medical and surgical abortions depending on the country or region.

What are the side effects of medical vs surgical abortions?

Side effects of medical abortions may include cramping, bleeding, nausea, and diarrhea, whereas surgical abortions may cause cramping, bleeding, and anesthesia-related side effects.

Are there any circumstances where one method is preferred over the other?

Medical abortions may be preferred in cases where surgical procedures pose higher risks due to medical conditions, or when privacy and convenience are prioritized.

Can complications arise after either type of abortion?

Both medical and surgical abortions carry a risk of complications, although they are generally rare. Complications can include infection, heavy bleeding, allergic reactions to medications in the case of medical abortion, and anaesthesia-related risks or uterine injury in surgical abortion.

Do medical and surgical abortions affect menstrual cycles differently?

After a medical abortion, menstrual cycles typically return to normal within a few weeks to a month. After a surgical abortion, cycles may also return to normal within a similar timeframe, although individual variations can occur.

What should I consider when deciding between a medical or surgical abortion?

Factors to consider include gestational age, medical history, personal comfort with medications or surgical procedures, recovery preferences, and access to healthcare services.

Can I choose between medical and surgical abortion methods if I have had a previous cesarean section (C-section) or other uterine surgeries?

Depending on your specific medical history and circumstances, your healthcare provider will advise you on the safest and most effective abortion method considering any previous uterine surgeries

View more questions