Overview
One of the most commonly asked questions by women facing unplanned pregnancies is:- What is the best abortion method? Many seek answers on how to safely end a pregnancy without complications.
This guide will help you discover the best abortion option that suits your particular circumstances so you can make an informed decision about your reproductive health.
Key Point!
“No matter how stressful your situation may be, do not attempt to end a pregnancy using unsafe abortion methods. These methods are costly, risky and can even result into death.
What Are the Two Safe Abortion Methods?
In In South Africa, there are two medically approved safe abortion methods: medical abortions and surgical abortions.
Medical Abortions
Medical abortions involve taking 2 types of medications Mifepristone and Misoprostol. These abortion pills are designed to end a pregnancy within the first 10 – 12 weeks of gestation.
This abortion procedure is used by many women around the globe, offers more privacy, can be self managed at home and has a high successful rate of over 98%. (Source: WHO, Abortion Facts)
- Risks of a medical abortion
- Most women experience discomfort like vomiting and diarrhoea.
- Some women may encounter incomplete procedures incase you get a less dosage.
📌 To Learn More:- Read Our Ultimate Guide To A Medical Termination of Pregnancy.
Surgical Abortions
An in-clinic abortion also known as a surgical termination is usually performed by a professional healthcare provider with the help of a local anesthesia or sedation to ensure comfort.
This is an alternative for women who not qualify to use the abortion medication and also a suitable option for women with pregnancy complications such as an ectopic pregnancy.
- Injury to the uterus or cervix if the pregnancy is far along.
- Reaction to the anesthesia used. Some women experience problems with breathing or dizziness.
📌 More Info:- What are surgical abortions
What is the Best Abortion Method?
The best and safest abortion method depends on your pregnancy stage, health, and medical support. South Africa offers two medically approved options: medical abortion (abortion pills) and surgical abortions.
How Do I Choose the Best Method?
| Medical Abortion | Surgical Abortion | |
|---|---|---|
|
Availability:- |
From 4 to 10 weeks into the pregnancy |
From 6 up to 20 weeks into the pregnancy. |
|
Where Is It Done? |
It can be self-managed at home or at the abortion clinic |
Surgical abortion takes place on the clinic preemies |
|
How long Is the Process |
Medical abortions take long to complete. |
Surgical abortions are much more quicker. |
|
Side effects |
|
|
Aftercare Tips for a Safe Abortion Experience
After safely terminating a pregnancy, it is important to follow essential do’s and don’ts to minimize complications and promote recovery. (See Do’s and Don’ts After Abortion)
Below are a few guidelines to help prioritize your health and wellbeing during this sensitive time.
1- Eat Notorious Foods
- Drink plenty of water, diluted juices or energy drinks to stay hydrated.
- Maintain a well balanced diet, eat notorious foods like vegetables, eggs and meat. (Healthy foods for recovery here: Quick Recovery Foods)
- Get plenty of rest and take all your medications and avoid strenuous activities.
2 - Maintain hygiene
- Using sanitary pads instead of tampons in order to monitor and track any changes or irregulates in the blood flow.
- Avoid penetrative sex for at least 3 weeks until you fully healed. (More on sex after abortion:- What you Need to Know)
- Avoid swimming pools, bathtubs or sitting in soapy water.
In conclusion
By understanding the available abortion options, their benefits, and potential risks, you can make informed decisions about your sexual health.
If you need more information, feel free to Contact Carlton Women’s Clinic.
Sharing is Caring!
Frequently Asked Questions
Abortion tablets are very safe and have a success rate of 98% when taken under proper medical supervision.
The best stage to terminate a pregnancy is as early as possible within the 4 – 10 weeks because it is safer, simpler, and more effective.
Abortion is less painful at 1 month compared to 4 months. During the process you might feel mild cramping similar to menstrual cramps and can be managed with pain relief tablets.
Yes abortion has side effects and these might include:-
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Cramping
- Followed by bleeding
Bleeding after ending a pregnancy can last about 1 – 2 weeks as long as you are not changing more than 3 pads a day.
Abortion recovery varies from one women to another but most patients tend to feel back to normal within 1 – 2 weeks.
References
- WHO – Abortion Facts & Aftercare: Read here ↗
- Carlton Women’s Clinic Joburg – Post Abortion Care Guide: Read here ↗
- FDA – Aspirin & Medication Warnings: Read here ↗
- NHS – Causes of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Read here ↗
- Support for depression and anxiety: Contact SADAG ↗
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