So, you just found out you’re pregnant, and maybe it wasn’t part of the plan. Maybe your heart is racing, your thoughts are all over the place, or you’re scrolling through endless Google searches, unsure what to trust. Wherever you are right now, you need to know one thing:
This is your body, your life, and your choice, and you deserve all the facts and support to choose with confidence.
Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) is a safe, legal option for women in India, and many choose it every year for their own reasons. Whether you’re certain about your decision or still weighing your options, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
- Full form of MTP
MTP stands for Medical Termination of Pregnancy - a safe and legal procedure to end a pregnancy through medication or minor surgical intervention. This medical term simply means abortion performed under proper medical supervision.
- What is MTP (Medical Termination Of Pregnancy)?
MTP refers to the intentional ending of a pregnancy. In India, this can be done through:
- Medical abortion: Terminating a pregnancy using prescribed pills which is usually used in pregnancies up to 9 weeks
- Surgical abortion: Minor procedures like vacuum aspiration for pregnancies up to 20 weeks and beyond.
The method used depends on how far along the pregnancy is and your personal health factors. You can discuss and decide this with your doctor
- Is MTP legal in India?
Good news: India has progressive abortion laws. While a lot of countries choose to not give this right to thier woman, India has had progressive abortion laws since 1971 under the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, which was recently updated in 2021 to expand access. The amended law protects privacy by replacing "married women" with "any woman", including unmarried women and those in non-traditional relationships. This progressive framework ensures that reproductive healthcare decisions remain between a woman and her doctor.
- Who can get an abortion and up to how many weeks?
The law recognises that reproductive choices are deeply personal which is why abortions are allowed for reasons of failed contraceptives and in case of adverse health impact (both mental and physical). The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act (updated in 2021) allows abortions for pregnancies under these conditions:
- Abortions up to 20 weeks are allowed with one doctor’s approval.
- Abortions between 20–24 weeks require two doctors’ consent.
- Abortions beyond 24 weeks are only allowed for severe medical emergencies.
Key things to need to know:
✔ You have the right to privacy- no one else needs to know.
✔ No spouse/parent permission is required if you’re over 18.
✔ Hospitals/clinics cannot deny you care if you qualify under the MTP Act.
- How does medical abortion work?
Medical abortion (also called the "abortion pill") is a safe, non-invasive option for terminating early pregnancies (up to 9 weeks in India). Here’s exactly what to expect at each stage:
- Mifepristone (Day 1 at the Clinic)
- What it does: Gently blocks progesterone, pausing the pregnancy’s growth.
- What to expect: After taking the pill most people feel fine—some notice lighter pregnancy symptoms (like less nausea).
- Misoprostol (24–48 Hours Later at Home)
- What it does: Triggers uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy.
- What to expect:
- Within hours of taking the pill you might notice heavy bleeding and cramps (like an intense period). You can expect 4–6 hours of strong cramps/clots.
- The bleeding becomes lighter after and may continue for 1–2 weeks.
Your Safety & Comfort Come First
✔ Pain relief medications are often prescribed for medical abortions. We’ll guide you on using ibuprofen + heat pads for cramps.
✔ Follow-up: A quick check-in (ultrasound or visit) ensures that the abortion is complete and you are safe from any sort of infection.
- When is a surgical abortion recommended?
While medical abortion (the pill) works well for early pregnancies, surgical abortion (also called in-clinic abortion) may be recommended in some cases, like:
1. When You’re Further Along
Surgical abortions are recommended for pregnancies beyond 9–10 weeks (up to 24 weeks in India, depending on legal guidelines).
Why? The abortion pill becomes less effective as pregnancy progresses.
2. For Faster, More Predictable Results
Surgical abortions are also referred to those who want a single-day procedure. This might be better when compared to the multi-day process of medical abortion, which can lead to prolonged bleeding and cramps.
3. For certain medical or Safety Reasons
Surgical abortions may be required if:
- The pregnancy is ectopic (outside the uterus) or has severe abnormalities.
- You have certain health conditions (e.g., bleeding disorders, IUD in place).
- A previous medical abortion failed (rare but possible).
What to Expect in a surgical abortion:
✅ Procedure: Quick (10–15 mins) with sedation or local anaesthesia.
✅ Recovery: Most leave the clinic within hours; light bleeding for 1–2 weeks.
✅ Follow-up: Rarely needed unless complications arise.
How can Proactive For Her support you?
- No-judgment counselling to help you understand the process better and take an informed decision.
- Safe, sterile clinics with trained and registered providers.
- Aftercare guidance for physical/emotional recovery.
- When to avoid the MTP kit?
While medical abortion is safe for most people, there are certain situations where it could be risky. Do NOT use the MTP kit if:
1. You’re Too Far Along (Pregnancy Beyond 9 Weeks)
The abortion pill (Mifepristone + Misoprostol) is only FDA & WHO-approved up to 9 weeks (63 days).
Beyond this, it’s less effective and riskier—surgical abortion is safer.
2. You Might Have an Ectopic Pregnancy
If the pregnancy is outside the uterus (like in the fallopian tubes), the pills won’t work and can be life-threatening.
3. You Have Certain Medical Conditions
Avoid the MTP kit if you have:
✔ Severe anaemia (very low blood count) – Heavy bleeding caused by the pills could be dangerous.
✔ Bleeding disorders (like hemophilia) as it can lead to a risk of uncontrolled bleeding.
✔ Chronic adrenal failure or long-term steroid use – Can interfere with the medication.
✔ An IUD in place. IUDs have to be removed first by a doctor.
4. You Can’t Access Emergency Medical Care
If you live far from a hospital or clinic, surgical abortion may be safer in case of complications. Medical abortion can cause heavy bleeding or infection, which may need urgent care.
5. You’re Allergic to the Medications
Rare, but if you’ve had reactions to Mifepristone or Misoprostol, tell your doctor.
6. You’re Being Pressured or Unsure
If you feel forced, scared, or uncertain, take time to think.
A good doctor won’t rush you—they’ll help you explore all options.
- How can you prepare for MTP procedure?
If you’ve decided to proceed with an MTP, here’s how to prepare- physically, emotionally, and logistically for a safe and supported experience.
1. Confirm Your Pregnancy & Get an Ultrasound
✔ Pregnancy test & ultrasound – Confirms how far along you are and rules out ectopic pregnancy (a medical emergency).
✔ Blood tests – Checks for anaemia, infections, or blood type (in case you need Rh immunoglobulin).
2. Talk to your doctor to choose the Right Method (Medical vs. Surgical)
Ask your doctor questions like:
“Which method is safest for me?”
“What should I expect during and after?”
Our doctors at Proactive will guide you through the entire procedure and clarify any doubts you may have.
3. Arrange for Support & Comfort