What is Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP)?
What is Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP)?
Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP), commonly known as medical abortion, is a safe and scientifically approved method for ending an early pregnancy using prescribed medicines. It is one of the most common reproductive healthcare procedures worldwide and is considered very safe when performed under medical supervision.
At Sharada Hospital, we believe that every woman deserves confidential, compassionate, and evidence-based MTP care. This detailed blog explains what Medical Termination of Pregnancy is, how it works, eligibility, safety, risks, legal rules in India, and what to expect before, during and after the procedure.
What is Medical Termination of Pregnancy?
Medical Termination of Pregnancy refers to the use of medications to end an early pregnancy. Unlike surgical abortion, medical MTP does not involve anaesthesia or instruments. Instead, it relies on FDA-approved medicines that safely induce the termination process.
In simple terms:
Medical MTP = Ending a pregnancy using tablets prescribed by a qualified gynaecologist.
This method is most effective in early pregnancy and offers a more private, natural process that many women prefer.
Medical MTP vs Surgical MTP — What’s the Difference?
Understanding the difference helps women make informed decisions.
1. Medical MTP (Medication Abortion)
‣ Uses tablets to terminate pregnancy
‣ No surgery, no anaesthesia
‣ Best for early pregnancy
‣ Process resembles a heavy menstrual period or natural miscarriage
‣ Can be done on an outpatient basis with medical supervision2. Surgical MTP
‣ Involves a short procedure (such as vacuum aspiration)
‣ Usually recommended for later pregnancies, complications, or when medical MTP fails
‣ Faster completion (10–20 minutes)
‣ Performed in a hospital settingAt Sharada Hospital, gynaecologists help women understand which method is safest and most appropriate for their situation.
How Does Medical Termination of Pregnancy Work?
Medical MTP typically involves two medications:
1. Mifepristone
‣ Taken first
‣ Blocks progesterone (the hormone needed to sustain pregnancy)
‣ Stops the growth and support of the pregnancy
2. Misoprostol
‣ Taken 24–48 hours later
‣ Causes the uterus to contract
‣ Expels the pregnancy tissue naturally
This combination is globally known for its high safety and effectiveness rate (over 95% in early pregnancy).
Who is Eligible for Medical Termination of Pregnancy?
Not everyone can undergo medical MTP. Eligibility typically includes:
✔ Early Pregnancy
‣ Best for pregnancies up to 9–10 weeks
‣ Accuracy of dating is important (LMP or ultrasound).
✔ Confirmed Intrauterine Pregnancy
‣ Ectopic pregnancy (outside uterus) CANNOT be managed with MTP tablets
‣ Requires a separate treatment.
✔ No Contraindications
‣ Certain conditions may prevent the use of MTP medicines, such as:
‣ Severe anaemia
‣ Bleeding disorders
‣ Allergy to medicines
‣ Long-term steroid use
‣ Certain chronic health illnesses
A gynaecologist evaluates all these factors during consultation at Sharada Hospital.
✔ Access to Emergency Care
‣ Even though complications are rare, medical supervision is essential for safety.
Legal Aspects of Medical Termination of Pregnancy in India
India’s abortion laws are among the most progressive globally, but many are unaware of the details.
✔ Up to 20 weeks
‣ Termination can be done with the opinion of one registered medical practitioner in most situations.
✔ 20–24 weeks
‣ Allowed for specific categories such as:
‣ Survivors of sexual assault
‣ Minors
‣ Certain vulnerable women
‣ Cases involving fetal abnormalities
✔ Beyond 24 weeks
‣ Only under special approval by a medical board for severe fetal anomalies.
✔ Confidentiality
‣ Under Indian law, a woman’s identity cannot be disclosed, ensuring privacy and protection.
Sharada Hospital follows all MTP Act and legal regulations to ensure ethically compliant and confidential care.
What to Expect During Medical Termination of Pregnancy
Understanding the process reduces anxiety and helps women prepare mentally.
Before the Procedure
‣ Consultation with gynaecologist
‣ Physical exam
‣ Ultrasound (if required)
‣ Confirmation of gestational age
‣ Complete counselling about risks, benefits and alternatives
‣ Instructions on how and when to take the medications
During the Procedure
After taking the misoprostol dose:
‣ Moderate to heavy bleeding
‣ Cramping similar to a painful period
‣ Passing of clots and pregnancy tissue
‣ Nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea (temporary)
These symptoms are normal and expected.
Pain Management
‣ Painkillers (NSAIDs) are usually prescribed
‣ Rest and hydration recommended
‣ Bleeding often starts within a few hours and continues for several days.
What to Expect After Medical MTP
Bleeding
‣ Can last 1–2 weeks
‣ Light spotting may continue up to 4 weeks
Follow-up
‣ Essential to check if the abortion is complete
‣ Usually done after 7–14 days
‣ May include physical exam, pregnancy test, or ultrasound
Return of Period
‣ Period typically returns 4–6 weeks after MTP
Emotional Health
‣ Hormonal shifts may cause mood changes.
Counselling support is available at Sharada Hospital for women who need emotional care.
Is Medical Termination of Pregnancy Safe?
Yes, medical MTP is considered extremely safe when supervised by a qualified doctor. Complications are rare and manageable when care is taken.
However, risks though uncommon can include:
‣ Incomplete abortion
‣ Excessive bleeding
‣ Infection
‣ Continuing pregnancy
‣ Severe pain or fever
Women must watch for danger signs mentioned below.
Warning Signs That Require Immediate Medical Attention
Contact a doctor or emergency service immediately if you experience:
‣ Soaking two or more pads per hour for more than two hours
‣ Severe abdominal pain not relieved by medication
‣ High fever lasting more than 24 hours
‣ Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
‣ Feeling dizzy, faint, or extremely weak
‣ No bleeding after taking misoprostol (could indicate incomplete abortion)
Sharada Hospital offers 24×7 support for patients undergoing MTP.
Advantages of Medical Termination of Pregnancy
‣ Non-surgical
‣ Can be done early
‣ More natural and private
‣ No anaesthesia required
‣ Lower risk of complications
‣ High effectiveness
‣ Gives women more control
Limitations of Medical MTP
‣ Not suitable for all gestational ages
‣ Requires more time compared to surgical methods
‣ Bleeding can last longer
‣ Small chance of incomplete abortion
‣ Requires mandatory follow-up
Contraception After Medical MTP
Fertility returns quickly after an abortion sometimes within 10–14 days. It is important to start contraception immediately after the procedure.
Options include:
‣ Birth control pills
‣ IUD
‣ Implants
‣Condoms
‣ Injectable contraceptivesSharada Hospital provides complete family planning counselling to help women choose the right method.
Why Choose Sharada Hospital for Medical Termination of Pregnancy?
Sharada Hospital provides:
‣ Experienced gynecologists
‣ Safe, evidence-based MTP protocols
‣ Complete privacy and confidentiality
‣ Ultrasound and diagnostic support
‣ Emergency backup if required
‣ Post-abortion counselling
‣ Affordable, ethical care
Every patient is treated with respect, compassion, and dignity.
Conclusion
Understanding what Medical Termination of Pregnancy is helps women make safe and informed decisions about their reproductive health.
MTP is:
‣ Safe
‣ Effective
‣ Legal
Easily accessible at registered centers like Sharada Hospital
If you or someone you know is considering MTP, consult a qualified gynecologist as early as possible. Early evaluation ensures safety, better comfort and maximum effectiveness.