Abortion in India at 18 weeks pregnant: Available Options

September 15, 2023

12 to 20 weeks abortion, UncategorizedNo Comments

Contents of this post:

• Understanding Abortion in India Laws at 18 weeks Pregnant
• The 18-Week Pregnancy Milestone
• Abortion in India: Available procedures at 18 weeks
• Post-Abortion Care and Recovery

When facing an unplanned pregnancy at 18 weeks, it’s crucial to know your rights and choices. In this post, we’ll guide you through the process of seeking an abortion in India. We’ll provide you with essential information, resources, and personal insights to help you make informed decisions during this challenging time.

Understanding Abortion in India Laws at 18 Weeks Pregnant:

India’s abortion laws have come far off over the years to reflect changing societal norms and medical advancements. These laws, governed primarily by the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, of 1971, outline the conditions under which a woman can legally terminate her pregnancy. Here, we delve into the key aspects of India’s abortion laws to provide a comprehensive understanding.

Gestation Age Limits for Abortion in India:

The MTP Act permits abortions up to 20 weeks of pregnancy. However, this limit is extendable up to 24 weeks if a qualified medical practitioner certifies that the continuation of the pregnancy poses a risk to the mother’s life or could result in a malformed child.

Permissible Reasons for Abortion in India:

Abortion in India is legally permissible under various circumstances, including when the pregnancy poses a risk to the mother’s physical or mental health, if there is a substantial risk of the child being born with severe physical or mental abnormalities, or when the pregnancy occurs due to failure of contraceptive methods.

Provider Qualifications for Abortion in India:

Only registered medical practitioners can perform abortions in India in approved facilities. Additionally, only qualified gynecologists or obstetricians can carry out surgical abortions, ensuring that the procedure is safe and performed under proper medical supervision.

Marital Status:

The MTP Act does not discriminate based on marital status. Both married and unmarried women can seek legal abortions in India without any discrimination.

Consent for Abortion in India:

In most cases, the woman’s consent is mandatory. However, in situations where a medical emergency threatens the woman’s life, such as in cases of severe bleeding or organ failure, immediate medical intervention can be initiated without explicit consent.

Yes, like in other countries, abortion in India is legally available to any woman with her consent only. So, no partner or parental consent is necessary for any adult woman seeking a safe, legal and confidential abortion in India.

Confidentiality of women seeking abortion in India:

The law mandates the maintenance of utmost confidentiality regarding the woman’s identity and her decision to undergo an abortion. Hence, disclosing this information without the woman’s consent is a violation of her privacy.

Safe and Legal Abortions:

The MTP Act aims to ensure that abortions are conducted safely and legally, reducing the prevalence of unsafe, clandestine procedures that pose significant health risks to women.

Awareness and Access to Abortion in India:

To make these laws effective, it is essential to raise awareness about women’s reproductive rights and improve access to safe abortion services, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Recent Amendments:

In 2020, India made significant amendments to the MTP Act. This momentous bill aimed to modernize India’s abortion laws. A year later, on 16 March 2021, the bill was enacted into law as the MTP Amendment Act 2021. As a result, there is no discrimination in providing legal abortions to unmarried women.

The recent judgment by a three-judge bench of the Supreme Court of India on 29 September 2022 further solidified women’s reproductive rights. The Court recognized the intrinsic right of every pregnant woman, regardless of marital status, to choose abortion without third-party consent. Furthermore, it emphasized a woman’s autonomy over her body, her right to make decisions about abortion, and her right to access safe and legal abortion services.

Therefore, India’s abortion laws have come a long way in safeguarding women’s reproductive rights and ensuring access to safe and legal abortion services. These laws are designed to protect women’s health, privacy, and well-being while addressing various aspects of gestation, reasons, and consent.

The 18-Week Pregnancy Milestone:

At 18 weeks into your pregnancy, making decisions becomes increasingly important, especially if you are contemplating an abortion. We understand the sensitivity of this situation and aim to provide valuable information to guide you through this process.

Timeliness Matters:

It’s vital to recognize that abortion laws in India typically permit abortions up to 20 weeks of gestation. So, beyond this point, obtaining approval becomes more challenging. Therefore, making a prompt decision is crucial, as any delay can limit your available options.

Abortion Procedures:

Since you are looking forward to obtaining an abortion in India, you are not in the eligibility for abortion pills or suction abortion. So, you are most likely eligible for a surgical abortion which can be done either by Dilatation and Curettage (D&C) or Dilatation and Evacuation (D&E). There’s also a more natural abortion procedure available at this stage, known as Gentle Care Induced abortion. We will discuss it ahead in the post. Our experienced healthcare professionals can explain the procedure in detail, addressing your concerns and ensuring your safety throughout.

Emotional Support:

Decisions about abortion can be emotionally challenging. Moreover, at 18 weeks, you might have developed a connection with your pregnancy. It’s perfectly normal to have mixed feelings and concerns. And we understand them. So, our team provides compassionate support to help you navigate these emotions.

Logistical Planning:

Planning for your abortion procedure, including travel and accommodation if you are coming from other cities or countries, is essential. Our confidential abortion services cater to women travelling to Bangalore for safe and legal abortions. So, we can assist with logistical arrangements to make your experience as smooth as possible.

Hence, deciding on an abortion at 18 weeks requires careful consideration and timely action. We understand the importance of your decision and are here to support you every step of the way.

Abortion in India: Available procedures at 18 weeks:

When considering an abortion at 18 weeks in India, there are three major procedures to choose from. These are Dilation and Curettage (D&C), Dilation and Evacuation (D&E), and Gentle Care Induced Abortion.

1. Dilation and Curettage (D&C):

D&C is a surgical abortion procedure involving the following steps:

Dilation: The cervix is gradually dilated to allow access to the uterus.

Curettage: A curette (a thin, spoon-shaped instrument) is used to remove the pregnancy tissue.

Suction: Suction may be used to ensure the complete removal of tissue and to control bleeding.

2. Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)

D&E is another surgical option, typically performed in the second trimester:

Dilation: The cervix is dilated to create an opening for the doctor to let in the medical equipment.

Evacuation: Surgical instruments and suction are used to remove the pregnancy tissue.

Monitoring: The procedure is closely monitored through ultrasound to ensure completeness.

3. Gentle Care Induced Abortion:

Gentle Care Induced Abortion is a distinct approach to abortion in India during the second trimester. It involves the following steps:

Induced Labor: The procedure initiates induced labor, similar to childbirth.

Dilation: As labor progresses, the cervix dilates naturally.

Delivery: Once the cervix is sufficiently dilated, the fetus is delivered.

Dilation and Evacuation (D&E): After delivery, a D&E procedure may be performed to ensure the complete removal of any remaining tissue.

Advantages of Gentle Care Induced Abortion over Surgical Methods:

Gentle Care Induced Abortion offers specific advantages, especially for pregnancies at 18 weeks. These include:

1. Reduced Surgical Intervention: Unlike D&C and D&E, which involve more invasive surgical procedures, Gentle Care Induced Abortion primarily relies on the body’s natural processes of labor and delivery. This minimizes the need for surgical instruments.

2. Lower Risk of Uterine Perforation: Surgical procedures like D&C and D&E carry a risk of uterine perforation. Gentle Care Induced Abortion, by relying on labor, reduces this risk.

3. Potential for a More Natural Experience: Some individuals prefer Gentle Care Induced Abortion because it can feel more similar to a natural childbirth experience. This can be emotionally significant for some women.

4. Emotional Considerations: For women facing the decision of abortion at 18 weeks, the emotional impact is significant. Gentle Care Induced Abortion may provide a more emotionally manageable experience for some, as it aligns with the natural progression of labor and childbirth.

5. Potential for Reduced Recovery Time: While recovery experiences vary, some women find that the recovery process after Gentle Care Induced Abortion may be less uncomfortable compared to surgical procedures.

Ultimately, the choice between these methods should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. They can assess your individual circumstances, preferences, and any medical considerations to help you make an informed decision about the most suitable abortion procedure for your situation.

Post-Abortion Care and Recovery after Abortion in India at 18 Weeks:

Recovery after an abortion at 18 weeks is a crucial phase, both physically and emotionally. Understanding what to expect and how to take care of yourself during this time is essential for a smooth recuperation. Some key aspects of post-abortion care and recovery after abortion in India at 18 weeks are:

1. Medical Monitoring:

After the abortion procedure, you will be closely monitored by medical professionals to ensure there are no immediate complications. This may involve monitoring your vital signs and assessing your overall condition. If you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, or any concerning symptoms, it’s essential to report them promptly to your healthcare provider.

After a Gentle Care abortion, you can rest in your private room until you feel sufficiently rested before discharge. Then, you’ll receive a comprehensive post-abortion consultation and guidance for a rapid recovery. You can also discuss your contraceptive options for the future to avoid any unintended pregnancies.

2. Pain Management:

Some level of discomfort or mild cramping is normal after an abortion. Your healthcare provider may prescribe pain medication to help manage any pain or discomfort you may experience. Following the prescribed medication regimen is crucial.

3. Rest and Recovery:

Rest is critical during the initial recovery period. Allocate a few days for rest post-procedure. Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exercise until your healthcare provider gives you the green light. Resting allows your body to heal and reduces the risk of complications.

4. Emotional Support:

Emotional recovery is an integral part of the post-abortion process, especially after an abortion at 18 weeks. It’s normal to experience a range of emotions, including relief, sadness, grief, or guilt. If required, reach out to a reliable friend, family member, or mental health expert for emotional support.

5. Follow-Up Appointments:

Your healthcare provider will arrange follow-up visits to oversee your recuperation. These appointments are essential to ensure that you are healing properly and to address any concerns or questions you may have.

One of the advantages of Gentle Care abortion is that patients do not usually require any follow-up. They can be peaceful about a successful procedure and return to their native cities or countries. Therefore, many patients travel to Bangalore from Mangalore, Mysore, Chennai, Coimbatore, Hubli Dharwad and other cities of Kerala. Also, this advantage of Gentle Care abortions makes American Hospital Bangalore (AHB) one of the choicest abortion destinations for women living in countries like the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Maldives, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, etc.

6. Birth Control Consideration:

Discuss birth control options with your healthcare provider during your recovery period. Deciding on a suitable contraceptive method can help you plan for the future and prevent unintended pregnancies.

7. Physical Symptoms:

It’s common to experience some physical symptoms during recovery, such as bleeding and discharge. These symptoms should gradually improve. However, if you notice heavy bleeding (soaking more than one pad per hour for several hours), severe abdominal pain, fever, or foul-smelling discharge, contact your healthcare provider immediately, as these could be signs of complications.

8. Emotional Well-Being:

The emotional recovery process varies from person to person. Some individuals may find comfort in discussing their feelings with friends, family, or professionals, while others may prefer to process their emotions privately. Be patient with yourself and give yourself the time and space needed to heal emotionally.

9. Future Pregnancy Planning:

If you plan to become pregnant in the future, discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can guide you when it is safe to conceive again and offer recommendations to support a healthy pregnancy when the time is right for you.

Remember that recovery after an abortion at 18 weeks is a unique journey for each person. Your healthcare provider is your best resource for personalized guidance and support during this time. Prioritize self-care, seek emotional support if needed, and follow your provider’s instructions for a safe and healthy recovery.

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