Hey there. I can only imagine how overwhelmed, scared you might be feeling right now. Finding out that you are pregnant when you weren’t expecting it can bring a whirlwind of emotions and a gazillion questions about what to do next. Right now, I want you to know that you’re not alone and it is completely normal to feel this way.
Answering the biggest question first- yes, abortion is legal and if you’re 18 or older- you do not need anyone else’s consent. We’ll go through this together, step by step.
It’s 2025 and I think it is time to move past the stigma surrounding abortion. You deserve to make informed decisions about your body, confidently. You’ve got this and I’ve got you.
Let’s cut through this noise together and gear up to tackle the essentials- abortion laws in India, what to expect during legal abortion procedures, the real talk about abortion procedure cost and the necessary precautions. I’m sure by the end of this blog you will feel calmer, informed and empowered to make the best decision for yourself.
What are the common types of abortions in India
There are mainly two types of abortions available:
- Medical abortion is entirely carried out with doctor prescribed pills and can be done at home for ease.
- Surgical abortion is like a minor surgery performed by a qualified OB-GYN at a clinic.
Now I’ll dive into each, in detail, shortly.
Are abortions legal in India?
Yes! Abortion is legal in India under the Medical Termination Act (MTP) Act. Abortions up to 20 weeks require approval from one doctor. For 20-24 weeks, approval is required from two doctors, and only under specific conditions. Beyond 24 weeks, abortion is allowed only with permission from a medical board in cases of severe fetal abnormalities
And no, you do not need anybody’s- your partner or family’s consent (if you are above 18). It is your body, your choice.
How do abortions work?
Abortions safely terminate pregnancies through either medication or a minor surgery. The choice depends on your pregnancy duration and the condition of your health. It is a common, medically-safe procedure by thousands of women each year.
What is the process of medical and surgical abortion?
| Medical Abortion | Surgical Abortion |
| It is usually done within the first 9 weeks of pregnancy | It is performed for pregnancies up to 20 weeks |
| You have to take prescribed medication (under your doctor’s supervision) | The procedure is done at a clinic or a hospital by a trained doctor |
| The procedure can be done at home and may resemble that of a heavy period, with cramps and bleeding | It usually takes about 15-20 minutes and the recovery is comparatively quick, though there can be some cramps or spotting which will happen afterwards |
When is medical or surgical abortion recommended?
Here is a quick breakdown:
- Medical abortion is ideal for pregnancies less than 9 weeks
- Surgical abortion is recommended after 9 weeks or if medical abortion was not successful
Don’t worry, your doctor will help you choose the safest option.
Cutting Through Common Myths
You’ll hear lots of opinions from friends, family, or online forums. Remember:
- Abortion does not negatively affect future fertility if done safely.
- Safe abortions performed by medical experts carry minimal risks.
- Legal abortion is confidential, and your privacy is protected under abortion laws India.
Trust science-backed information—not myths—to guide your decisions.
Factors influencing the cost of abortion
When looking into abortion cost, several factors come into play:
- The type of abortion (medical abortion : MTP is usually less costly than a surgical procedure)
- The location
- The duration of your pregnancy
- Any additional tests or ultrasounds that are required
City- wise estimated prices of abortion
For cities like Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai the prices range between ₹25,500 to ₹50,000. Feel free to approach us for more clarity on prices and what is offered.
How can you prepare for abortion?
Feeling nervous is completely normal. Here’s how you can prepare yourself emotionally and physically:
- Talk openly with your OB-GYN about your fears.
- Have someone trustworthy accompany you for emotional support.
- Arrange rest and care afterward, especially after surgical procedures.
- Avoid heavy physical activities immediately following abortion.
- You’re stronger than you realize, and preparation can ease stress significantly.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Most post-abortion symptoms (like mild cramps or spotting) are normal. However, consult your OB-GYN if you experience:
- Excessive bleeding or severe pain.
- Persistent fever or chills.
- Ongoing dizziness or unusual weakness.
Don’t hesitate to reach out—it’s better to be safe and reassured.
Precautions to Take Before Going for Abortion Procedures
To ensure everything goes smoothly, keep these abortion safety measures in mind:
- Confirm pregnancy duration with an ultrasound.
- Disclose your medical history clearly to your doctor.
- Avoid alcohol or smoking at least 48 hours before the procedure.
- Follow the clinic’s advice regarding fasting or medications.
- Choose a reputable, registered healthcare provider to ensure your safety.
Final Thoughts
Remember, abortion is a common, safe medical procedure. Thousands of women in India safely access abortions each year under the protections of abortion laws India. It’s your body, your decision, and you have every right to compassionate, stigma-free healthcare.
Trust your instincts, stay informed, and seek support without hesitation.
You're doing incredibly well already. You are strong, capable, and in control of your own body and choices. And if you ever feel overwhelmed, Proactive For Her is here—ready to support you with empathy, clarity, and respect, always.
You’ve absolutely got this, and we’ve absolutely got you.
How Can Proactive For Her Help?
At Proactive For Her, we deeply understand the anxiety you're feeling. Our experienced OB-GYNs are empathetic, non-judgmental, and specifically trained to support women aged 18-35 through abortion procedures. We focus on your emotional and physical comfort, explaining each step clearly and compassionately. We believe every woman deserves stigma-free healthcare—your body, your choice, always.
We ensure that you feel safe, supported and dignified- and our care doesn’t just stop there. From the initial gynecologist consultation to ultrasound and CBC test. We will guide you through each step. We will ensure you take the pill under medical supervision which is followed by a consultation to check-in. Finally, a second ultrasound will confirm that the process is complete.
Pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but you're never alone. We’re here to support you with care, respect, and expertise every step of the way.
You’re doing amazing already—take a deep breath. You've got this, and we've got you.
FAQs
Is abortion legal in India?
Ans. Yes, abortion is legal in India under the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, which was first enacted in 1971 and has been amended over time, with significant changes in 2021.
What is the legal process for obtaining an abortion in India?
Ans. The process includes: Consultation with your doctor, medical assessment to determine eligibility and obtaining consent. The procedure must be performed by a registered medical practitioner in a registered facility
Up to how many weeks is abortion permitted in India?
Ans. Under the 2021 amendment: Pregnancies of up to 20 to 24 weeks are permitted to get an abortion, with the doctor’s permission after evaluation of your eligibility.
Are there specific precautions to take before undergoing an abortion?
Ans. Yes, complete medical check-up including ultrasound, disclose your medical history, follow instructions from your doctor and arrange for someone to accompany you home after the procedure.
Do I need consent from anyone to have an abortion in India?
Ans. If you are an adult, you do not require anybody’s consent, but if you are under 18 then a guardian/parent consent is required.
What are the different abortion methods available in India?
Ans. You have options like medical abortion and surgical abortion: Manual Vacuum Aspiration (MVA), Dilation and Evacuation (D&E),Dilation and Curettage (D&C)
How can I ensure the abortion procedure is safe?
Ans. Choose a registered medical facility, consult a qualified doctor, follow all pre and post-procedure instructions and report any unusual symptoms promptly
Are there authorized clinics for abortion services in India?
Ans. Yes, abortion services can legally be provided at: Government hospitals and primary health centers, registered private hospitals and clinics and medical facilities certified under the MTP Act.
What post-abortion care is recommended?
Ans. It is recommended to have: follow-up visits as scheduled by your doctor, complete the full course of any prescribed medications, watch for warning signs of complications, get adequate rest and give yourself the care you deserve.