How To Take Abortion Pills

Medical abortion is more than just taking a pill; it is a healthcare process that requires the right information and medical supervision. In India, over 80% of abortions are performed using medications because, when used correctly, they are over 98% effective and highly safe. 

In this guide, I will walk you through the abortion pill taking method as per Indian medical protocols. It’ll help you understand the dosage, the timing, and what to expect, so you can go through this process safely.

If you’re planning to prevent pregnancy with abortion pills, consult a gynaecologist before starting the pills. This is very important for your health and future fertility.

What Are Abortion Pills?

Before we discuss how to take abortion pills, it is important to understand what they are and how they work within your body. A medical abortion typically involves a combination of two different medications found in a standard "MTP Kit."

• Mifepristone: This is usually the first pill you take. It works by blocking progesterone, a vital hormone needed for a pregnancy to continue. Without progesterone, the lining of the uterus breaks down, and the pregnancy stops growing.

• Misoprostol: These are the four smaller tablets taken later. Their job is to cause the uterus to contract and empty. This process mimics a heavy period or a natural miscarriage to ensure the pregnancy tissue is expelled safely.

When is the Best Time to Take the Abortion Pill?

Choosing when to take abortion pill involves balancing medical effectiveness with your own comfort and need for recovery.

The Clinical Window (Up to 9 Weeks) 

You will find the most success with the abortion pill between 5 and 7 weeks of pregnancy. 

While the pills are effective up to 9 weeks (63 days) from the first day of your last period, taking them earlier in this window often means the physical symptoms, like cramping and bleeding, are milder, and the process is even more straightforward.

Planning for the 48-Hour Gap

Since the protocol requires two different doses taken 48 hours apart, timing your start is key. Many people choose to start on a Thursday or Friday. This way, you can take the second set of pills (which triggers the most active phase of the process) over the weekend. 

This ensures you have the privacy and time to rest comfortably at home without work or social commitments.

After Your Ultrasound

The safest time to start is once you have confirmed the pregnancy's location and exact age via an ultrasound. This step ensures the pregnancy is inside the uterus and that you are within the safe timeframe for the pills to work effectively for your body.

If your pregnancy is further along, pills alone may be incomplete or unsafe. You would likely need a surgical procedure (D&C or Suction Evacuation).

Important Note

Medical Abortion (MMA) is not an option for every stage of pregnancy. If your pregnancy is further along, pills alone may be incomplete or unsafe. You would likely need a surgical procedure (D&C or Suction Evacuation).

Never buy these MTP kits over the counter from a pharmacy without a prescription. Using them without an ultrasound to rule out an ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy in the tubes) can be life-threatening. Consult a gynaecologist first to confirm the location and age of the pregnancy.

The Process: How to Take the MTP Kit Step-by-Step

The standard MTP Kit contains 5 tablets:

1. 1 tablet of Mifepristone (200 mg) - The big pill.

2. 4 tablets of Misoprostol (200 mcg each) - The smaller pills.

This is the standard protocol:

Step 1: Mifepristone (The First Pill)

• Taken on Day 1 (after consulting your gynaec).

• Swallow the one large tablet with water. This medicine blocks the hormone progesterone, stopping the pregnancy from growing.

• What to Expect: Most women feel fine after this pill. You can usually continue your daily routine. Some may experience very light spotting, but the actual abortion process hasn't started yet.

Step 2: Misoprostol (The Second Set)

• Taken 48 hours (2 days) after the first pill.

• Dosage: You need to take the 4 smaller tablets.

• Method:

  • Sublingual (Recommended): Place the 4 tablets under your tongue and let them dissolve for 30 minutes. Swallow what is left.

  • Vaginal: Some doctors may ask you to insert them deep into the vagina.

  • Note: Oral swallowing (gulping them down) is generally less effective and causes more side effects like nausea.

  
  

What Happens After Taking the Abortion Pill?

Once you take the Misoprostol (Step 2), the active phase begins. This is when the uterus contracts to expel the pregnancy. Here are the side effects of abortion pills you may feel:

1. Bleeding and Clotting

• Timing: Bleeding usually starts within 1 to 4 hours.

• Volume: It will be heavier than your normal period. You will likely pass blood clots, which is normal.

• Duration: The heaviest bleeding typically lasts 4 to 6 hours. Once the pregnancy tissue passes, the bleeding will reduce but may continue like a light period for 10-14 days.

2. Cramping and Pain

• You will experience strong cramps, similar to bad period pain.

• Pain Management: You can take a painkiller (like Ibuprofen or Meftal-Spas) as prescribed by your doctor. Avoid aspirin as it can increase bleeding.

3. Common Side Effects

It is normal to experience the following for a few hours:

• Nausea or vomiting.

• Loose motions (Diarrhea).

• Mild fever or chills.

This day is physically demanding. If possible, please have a trusted friend or partner nearby for support. Stay hydrated, use a hot water bag for cramps, and rest. 

If you're feeling some unusual symptoms like fainting or extreme dizziness, don't worry, discussing with a gynaecologist will help you understand if you need medical intervention.

Symptoms to Check After Taking Abortion Pills: Normal vs. Danger Signs

Use this table to understand if your recovery is on track or if you need to visit a gynaecologist.

Post-Abortion Care: Supporting Your Body’s Recovery

Once the pregnancy tissue has passed, your body begins the process of returning to its non-pregnant state. Proper care during this time ensures you heal quickly and avoid complications.

• Prioritise Rest: While you can often return to light activities the next day, try to avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for at least one week. Listen to your body; if you feel fatigued, your body is asking for more time to heal.

• Nutrition and Hydration: You may have lost some blood during the process. Focus on iron-rich foods like leafy greens, lentils, or lean proteins, and drink plenty of water to maintain your energy levels.

• The 14-Day Follow-Up: This is perhaps the most important step. Even if you feel perfectly fine, you should consult your gynaecologist about two weeks after the procedure. They will confirm that the abortion is complete and that your uterus is healthy.

• Resuming Intimacy: It is generally recommended to wait until the bleeding has completely stopped (usually about 1-2 weeks) before having sex or inserting anything into the vagina (like tampons or menstrual cups). This helps prevent the risk of infection.

• Future Contraception: It is a common misconception that you cannot get pregnant immediately after a medical abortion. In reality, your fertility returns almost instantly. If you are not planning a pregnancy, talk to your doctor about starting a contraceptive method that works for you.

Conclusion

Knowing how to take abortion pills correctly gives you control over the situation and ensures the procedure is as safe as possible. While the physical experience can be intense for a few hours, the process is medically straightforward and highly effective for early pregnancy.

Rest, hydration, and patience are your best tools during recovery. However, medical support is always available if things don't feel right.

If you are in doubt about your bleeding levels or pain, it is always better to consult a gynaecologist. We are here to ensure your safety and recovery are on track.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is abortion legal in India for unmarried women?

Yes, absolutely. The MTP Act 2021 clearly states that marital status does not affect a woman's right to abortion. You do not need a husband's or partner's consent; you only need your own consent (if you are above 18).

Q: Do I need to get admitted to the hospital after taking abortion pill?

Usually, no. For pregnancies up to 7-9 weeks, the procedure is often done on an outpatient basis. You take the first pill at the clinic and the second set at home. However, you must go for a follow-up checkup after 14 days.

Q: How do I know if the abortion is complete?

You must visit your gynaecologist after 14 days for a checkup. They may do a urine test or an ultrasound to ensure the uterus is completely empty. An incomplete abortion can lead to serious infections.

Q: Will taking abortion pills affect my chances of getting pregnant in the future?

A safe, medical abortion does not affect your future fertility. In fact, you can get pregnant again immediately after your next ovulation, so be sure to discuss contraception with your doctor.

Q: When is the best time to take the abortion pill?

The best time to take the abortion pill (MTP Kit) is typically between 5 and 7 weeks of pregnancy, though it is medically effective up to 9 weeks (63 days). Always ensure you have confirmed the pregnancy age with a doctor via ultrasound before starting.