Abortion in India at 9 weeks pregnancy: All you need to know
Contents of this post:
Legal Framework for Abortion in India
Availability of abortion services in India
Timing of abortion in India: When can it be performed?
Method of abortion at 9 weeks of pregnancy
Post-abortion care and recovery
Contraception and family planning options after abortion
Legal Framework for Abortion in India:
Abortion in India at 9 weeks is legal according to the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act of 1971. This law allows for the termination of pregnancy under certain circumstances. It allows so for pregnancies up to 20 weeks of gestation. The permissible circumstances for legal abortion in India for all Indian citizens and foreigners, ex-pats, and NRIs are:
- In events of contraceptive failure, regardless of the contraception method utilized.
- The continuation of the pregnancy can pose a risk to the physical or mental health of the mother.
- The pregnancy is a result of rape or incest.
- There is a possibility that the child would be born with a severe physical or mental handicap. Or there is a risk of the child being born with a serious medical condition.
In cases where the pregnancy is beyond 20 weeks, abortion can be permitted only if it is necessary to save the life of the mother.
The MTP Act also outlines the conditions under which a registered medical practitioner can perform an abortion. All abortion procedures must be carried out in a government-approved medical facility. Additionally, the woman seeking the abortion can provide her consent. No parental consent is essential even in the case of abortion for an unmarried in India if she is an adult.
The MTP Act has undergone several amendments over the years, including the latest one in 2021. Accordingly, there has been an expansion of the eligibility criteria for women seeking abortion services. The amended Act allows for the termination of pregnancy up to 24 weeks in cases where the woman’s physical or mental health is at risk, or in cases of fetal abnormalities.
Overall, the MTP Act provides a legal framework for safe and legal abortion in India, intending to protect the health and rights of women.
Availability of abortion services in India:
The availability of abortion services in India varies depending on several factors, including geographic location, socio-economic status, and cultural beliefs. While the country has a legal framework for abortion under the MTP Act, access to safe and legal abortion services is still a challenge for many women.
In urban areas and major cities, abortion services are widely available in both private and public healthcare facilities. Private clinics and hospitals offer a range of options for abortion, including both medical and surgical methods. Public healthcare facilities, such as government-run hospitals and clinics, also provide abortion services, although the quality and accessibility of these services may vary depending on the region.
In rural and remote areas, access to abortion services is further less, with few trained medical professionals and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. In some cases, women may have to travel long distances to access quality abortion services. Many women in Kerala and other cities from Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu often travel to Bangalore for Gentle Care abortions.
Despite the legal provisions for abortion in India, cultural and social taboos around abortion can also impact the availability of services. Stigma and shame associated with seeking abortion can prevent women from accessing safe and legal abortion services. This leads them to seek unsafe and illegal methods.
Efforts are ongoing to improve access to these services and address the cultural and social barriers that prevent women from seeking legal and safe abortion services.
American Hospital Bangalore (AHB) offers safe, legal and confidential Gentle Care abortion services. AHB ensures the safety of patients’ health and privacy is of the topmost concern. And hence, only a single patient receives treatment at a time in a compassionate and non-judgmental atmosphere. Many married and unmarried women obtain Gentle Care abortions in India at AHB safely, comfortably and painlessly.
Timing of abortion in India: When can it be performed?
The MTP Act allows for abortion up to 20 weeks of pregnancy. But in certain circumstances, it may be performed beyond this time limit with the approval of a medical practitioner. In India, the timing of an abortion depends on several factors. These factors include the stage of pregnancy, the woman’s health, and the type of abortion procedure. Abortion can be performed at any stage of pregnancy. However, the method used may differ depending on the stage.
Up to 6 weeks of pregnancy, a woman can choose to have a medical abortion. But the pregnancy has to be intrauterine for a medical abortion to work out. It involves taking medication to induce a miscarriage.
After 6 weeks, suction abortion may be necessary. It involves removing the fetus and placenta from the uterus through suction. Since you are most likely 9 weeks pregnant, your doctor for abortion may most likely opt for a Vacuum aspiration abortion. However, the individual patient’s condition is worth considering. So, the doctor will make sure to choose and prescribe you the best abortion method for your case specific.
And beyond 12 weeks, surgical or Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) abortion is essential.
If a woman is seeking an abortion after 20 weeks of pregnancy, she must obtain approval from two medical practitioners.
It is important to note that abortion should be performed only by a qualified medical practitioner. And that too in a safe and sterile environment to minimize the risk of complications. Women seeking an abortion should also receive counselling and support before and after the procedure. This will help the woman understand the procedure and get support and help in case of any concerns.
Method of abortion in India at 9 weeks of pregnancy:
Gentle Care suction abortion is a safe and effective method of terminating a pregnancy at 9 weeks. This procedure involves the use of gentle suction to remove the pregnancy from the uterus. It is a high-quality abortion procedure that is performed in a safe and comfortable environment.
Pre-abortion consultation:
The procedure begins with a counselling session. During the pre-abortion consultation, the woman is given information about the procedure and what to expect. The consultation also includes an assessment of the woman’s medical history and any risk factors that may be present.
So, the woman must make a few things known to the doctor before the abortion procedure. These include:
- Her Last Menstrual Period (LMP)
- Any bleeding or spotting:
Do mention to your doctor if you have experienced any in between the last period and the positive pregnancy test. It may be because of implantation bleeding or a missed abortion. 1 out of every 4 pregnancies ends naturally like a small period. It is so early that woman considers it a period itself. So, before she even realizes that she was pregnant, she has a miscarriage.
But such a condition needs evaluation to check if the miscarriage was able to completely remove the embryo and pregnancy tissue. Otherwise, hormone levels may remain disrupted and the woman may keep feeling pregnant-like. The untreated condition can even lead to abdominal cramps, pain, discomfort and light bleeding for days.
- Any medical condition, you may be having.
- Any medicines, you may be taking,
- Allergies, if you have from any medicine or substance.
- It is worth mentioning to your doctor how you are feeling about having an abortion. This can help you receive professional advice and counselling from an experienced provider with a neutral opinion.
- Any concerns, queries or fears you may have from the abortion procedure.
Confirming pregnancy age:
After the counselling session, the woman is taken to a private exam room where she will undergo a pelvic exam. She will have to get an ultrasound scan at a nearby lab to confirm her gestational age. If the pregnancy is determined to be 9 weeks or less and intrauterine, the woman can proceed with the Gentle Care suction abortion procedure.
The abortion procedure:
The procedure is performed under sedation, which reduces discomfort. The cervix is then gently dilated using a series of dilators of increasing size. Or the doctor for abortion may also use medicines for the same. Once the cervix is fully dilated, a small suction tube is inserted into the uterus to remove the pregnancy. The gentle suction method used in the procedure helps to minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of injury to the uterus.
Gentle Care abortion utilizes a manual aspirator. This helps the abortion doctor control the pressure required for sucking the pregnancy tissue. The entire procedure takes about 10-15 minutes to complete and is performed on an outpatient basis.
After the procedure, the woman is given medication to help manage any discomfort or cramping that may occur. She is also monitored for a short period before being discharged home. During that time, she can recover in a private room in the presence of a companion. It is always good to have a loved one by your side. Emotional support and love help in faster recovery as the patient can cope well emotionally.
Gentle Care suction abortion at 9 weeks advantages:
Gentle Care suction abortion is a high-quality abortion procedure that has several advantages over other methods of abortion.
Non-invasive:
One advantage is that it is non-invasive like surgical abortion procedures. Surgical abortion can involve more extensive dilation of the cervix and more discomfort. Additionally, a surgical abortion comes with its own set of risks and complications which are minimum with Gentle Care suction abortion.
This makes the Gentle Care suction abortion procedure a more comfortable and less traumatic option for women seeking an abortion.
Efficiency:
In comparison to abortion pills, Gentle Care suction abortion is more efficient. Abortion pills often result in incomplete abortions as they are not more than 95% efficient. And hence, doctors usually do not prescribe abortion pills beyond 6 weeks of an intrauterine pregnancy. Since you are 9 weeks pregnant, the chances of incomplete abortion with medical abortion are still higher.
On the other hand, the Gentle Care suction abortion procedure is a highly effective method of terminating a pregnancy at 9 weeks. From past experiences, the procedure has a success rate of over 99%, which means that it is a highly reliable option for women seeking an abortion.
For a detailed difference between the two types of abortion, you can visit the following link: Medical or Suction abortion method: What may be best for you
Abortion risks and complications:
Another advantage of the Gentle Care suction abortion procedure is that it has a low risk of complications. The use of gentle suction helps to minimize the risk of injury to the uterus. And the sedation used in the procedure helps to reduce discomfort and prevent pain.
Comfort:
One of the key benefits of the Gentle Care suction abortion procedure is that it is a quick and efficient method of terminating a pregnancy. The entire procedure can be completed in a matter of a few minutes. This means that women can return to their normal activities relatively quickly after the procedure.
Privacy:
Another advantage of the Gentle Care suction abortion procedure is that it is private and confidential. The procedure is performed in a safe and comfortable environment, and the woman’s privacy is respected throughout the process.
Cost of abortion:
Finally, the cost of an abortion by Gentle Care suction method is relatively less than surgical abortion. Hence, it is a cost-effective option for women seeking an abortion. The procedure is less expensive than surgical abortion procedures, which can involve more extensive resources and longer hospital stays. This makes the Gentle Care suction abortion procedure a more affordable option for women who may be on a limited budget.
Although abortion pills may come at a lower cost, in case of an incomplete abortion, surgical abortion is the next move. And that may come with additional costs of follow-ups, multiple appointments, and surgical procedures to complete the abortion. In addition, patients often have to pay the cost of abortion pills with severe abdominal cramps, pain, heavy bleeding and a lot of discomforts.
In conclusion, the Gentle Care suction abortion procedure is a safe, effective, and high-quality method of terminating a pregnancy at 9 weeks. The procedure is less invasive than surgical abortion procedures, has a low risk of complications, is highly effective, and is a quick and efficient option for women seeking an abortion. It is also a private and confidential option that is more affordable than other methods of abortion. Women seeking an abortion should consider the Gentle Care suction abortion procedure as a safe and reliable option for terminating a pregnancy.
Post-abortion care and recovery:
Post-abortion care and recovery are crucial aspects of reproductive healthcare and an integral element of Comprehensive Abortion Care (CAC). It is essential to understand that abortion is a medical procedure. And like any other procedure, it can have physical and emotional after-effects. Therefore, women who undergo abortions require proper care and attention to recover fully.
Post-abortion care primarily involves providing medical treatment and support to women after an abortion. The goal of this care is to ensure that the woman’s physical and emotional well-being is preserved after the procedure. Some of the critical aspects of post-abortion care include pain management, infection prevention, and counselling.
Pain management:
It is an important aspect of post-abortion care. It is not uncommon for women to experience cramping and discomfort after an abortion. Medical professionals can prescribe pain medication to alleviate these symptoms. In addition, women may be advised to use heat therapy, such as a warm compress or a heating pad, to ease the pain.
Infection prevention:
It is another critical aspect of post-abortion care. After an abortion, the cervix is open and vulnerable to infection. Therefore, women must follow proper hygiene practices to prevent infection. This includes avoiding sexual activity for a certain period after the procedure, using sanitary pads instead of tampons or menstrual cups, and avoiding swimming pools and hot tubs. In addition, medical professionals may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.
Post-abortion consultation:
Counselling is yet another essential component of post-abortion care. Abortion can be a difficult and emotional experience for many women. Therefore, it is crucial to provide counselling to help women cope with their feelings and emotions. This may include individual or group counselling sessions, support groups, or referrals to mental health professionals.
In addition to these critical aspects of post-abortion care, women may also need to take some time off work or school to rest and recover. It is essential to listen to your body and take things easy during this time. Avoid strenuous activities or exercise, and get plenty of rest and sleep.
It is worth noting that recovery from an abortion is different for every woman. Some women may recover quickly and resume their daily activities within a few days, while others may take longer. However, if you experience severe pain, fever, heavy bleeding, or other concerning symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately.
It is also essential to take care of your emotional well-being after an abortion. Some women may experience feelings of guilt, shame, sadness, or grief after the procedure. These feelings are entirely normal and understandable. Therefore, it is crucial to seek emotional support if needed. This may include talking to a trusted friend or family member, seeking counselling, or joining a support group.
Contraception and family planning options after abortion:
After an abortion, it is essential to consider contraception and family planning options to prevent future unintended pregnancies. Contraception prevents pregnancy. Whereas, family planning refers to the methods used to plan and space pregnancies. There are various options available, and it is crucial to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
Coat protection:
The first option is barrier methods, such as condoms or diaphragms. These methods work by creating a physical barrier that prevents sperm from reaching the egg. They are readily available at pharmacies and other general stores. Barrier methods are also effective in preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Hormonal methods:
Hormonal methods, such as birth control pills, patches, or injections, are another option. These methods contain hormones that prevent ovulation, making it difficult for sperm to fertilize an egg. Hormonal methods are highly effective but require a prescription from a healthcare provider.
So, if you consider this method suitable for you, you may compare its effectiveness and obtain a prescription for the same as a part of your post-abortion consultation.
Intrauterine devices (IUDs):
They are a long-acting reversible contraception option. IUDs are small, T-shaped devices, usually made of copper and thence known as Copper-T. The doctor inserts it into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. Hormonal IUDs release hormones to prevent ovulation. And non-hormonal IUDs are also available. They contain copper that acts as a spermicide. IUDs are highly effective and can remain in place for up to 10 years.
Besides, you can get an IUD along with the Gentle Care suction abortion in the same appointment.
Contraceptive implant:
It is a small implant that the doctor inserts under the skin of the upper arm. It releases hormones that prevent ovulation. The implant is highly effective and can remain in place for up to three years.
Sterilization:
It is a permanent contraception option for people who do not wish to have any more children. Sterilization can be done through surgery or a minimally invasive procedure. It is essential to note that sterilization is not reversible, and it should only be considered if you are sure that you do not want to have children in the future.
Natural family planning methods:
These include tracking your menstrual cycle or using fertility awareness methods. These methods involve identifying the fertile window, which is the period in which you are most likely to get pregnant, and abstaining from sex during that time. Natural family planning methods require a lot of effort and commitment and may not be suitable for everyone.
It is important to consider the effectiveness, side effects, and personal preferences when choosing a contraception or family planning method. For example, if you have a history of blood clots, hormonal methods may not be suitable for you. Similarly, if you prefer a non-hormonal option, an IUD or a barrier method may be the best choice.
It is also essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any contraception or family planning method. A healthcare provider can help you choose the best option and provide information about the effectiveness, side effects, and potential risks.
After an abortion, it is recommended to wait for a few weeks before starting any contraception or family planning method. This allows your body to heal and recover fully. It is also essential to use contraception or family planning consistently and correctly to prevent future unintended pregnancies.
Benefits of post-abortion contraception:
In addition to preventing unintended pregnancies, contraception and family planning have several other benefits. These benefits include:
Improved reproductive health:
Contraception and family planning can help prevent and manage reproductive health conditions, such as heavy menstrual bleeding or endometriosis.
Improved maternal and child health:
Family planning can help prevent high-risk pregnancies and improve maternal and child health outcomes.
Improved economic and social outcomes:
Family planning can help families and communities thrive by improving economic and social outcomes.
In conclusion, contraception and family planning options are crucial after an abortion to prevent future unintended pregnancies.
Schedule an abortion in India appointment at 9 weeks pregnant.
Related posts:
- Abortion in India at 8 weeks pregnant – All you need to know
- Abortion at 7 weeks pregnancy – What do you need to know?
- Accessible Abortion for Filipinas in UAE: Overcoming Financial and Logistical Hurdles
- Can you get an abortion in Khor Fakkan, UAE?
- Why you should prioritize quality above the cost of abortion
Leave a Comment