Right now, your mind is racing, your body feels like it’s betraying you, and the internet is bombarding you with a thousand different opinions. You might be scared, overwhelmed, or just exhausted trying to make sense of it. If this is you—pause, take a breath. You are not alone. And you are still in control
I know you have likely come across all kinds of information, some helpful, some confusing while some misleading. But remember that you’re not alone in this. You deserve clear and honest guidance from someone who understands and is here to support you at every step of the way.
If this is you, take a deep breath. You are not alone and not wrong for making this choice. And you are definitely not the first woman to feel or think this way.
I am here to hold your hand through this process, give you facts about MTP kit side effects, help you understand what is happening to your body and remind you that you are still in control. Let’s take it step by step, ensuring you feel calm, aware and supported.
What is an MTP Kit?
An MTP (Medical Termination of Pregnancy) kit is a safe and very effective way to end an early pregnancy- which is up to 9 weeks. This kit contains two medicines, namely:
- Mifepristone - This first pill gently signals your body to stop supporting the pregnancy.
- Misoprostol - The second pill helps your body release it naturally—just like a miscarriage
This process usually happens at home and when all of it is carried out and taken correctly, the MTP kid is over 95% effective. However, before using an MTP kit, it is important to understand MTP kit safety and to know if it is the right option for you.
How does an MTP kit work?
Previously, your body was preparing for a pregnancy earlier and now it is adjusting back, this is mostly why you experience bleeding, cramping, and hormonal fluctuations- this is basically your body working in a natural process.
Step by step:
1. After taking Mifepristone most women don’t feel much immediately, some may experience nausea or spotting.
2. After taking Misoprostol (i.e. 24 to 48 hours later) is when the process begins, you will start experiencing cramps and bleeding. This is your body expelling the pregnancy tissue. The heaviest bleeding and the strongest cramps will last about 4 to 6 hours and then gradually decrease.
Note : Bleeding can continue for about two weeks but it should get lighter with time.
This process feels different for every woman- some say it’s like a heavy period while some say it is intense but short-lived.
Common Side Effects of the MTP Kit
Like any medical process, using an MTP kit does come with side effects. Some are expected and completely normal.
Mild to moderate side effects which are completely normal
- Cramping can be strong for a few hours but it will improve. Your body is working hard to reset itself, and that comes with some discomfort
- Bleeding can be heavier than a period but it will slow down
- Reactions to a change in hormones can come across as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Losing blood and hormonal fluctuations can make you feel drained and dizzy.
These MTP kit side effects usually go away within a few days but if you still feel discomfort you should try using a heating pad, staying hydrated and any medications suggested by your doctor.
Serious Side Effects - When to Seek Medical Help
Most women experience only mild symptoms but in rare cases, serious complications may occur. We suggest you contact your doctor if you experience:
- Excessive bleeding - soaking more than 4 pads in 2 hours or more than 2 pads in one hour
- Severe pain - if it doesn’t improve with medication
- High fever (Above 100 degrees Fahrenheit) - this could be a sign of infection
- Foul smelling discharge - this could be a signal that there is an infection or probably an incomplete abortion.
Please Note: these are rare cases, but it is crucial to listen to your body. If you feel that something is not right, trust your instincts and reach out for help.
Who Should Avoid an MTP Kit?
Since the MTP kit is like any other medical procedure, it is utmost important that we use it safely only when we are eligible and our conditions are normal. This may not be the right choice for you if:
- You have an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy outside your uterus)
- You have anemia or a blood disorder that increases your risk of heavy bleeding
- You are allergic to Mifepristone or Misoprostol
- You have an Intrauterine Device (IUD) in your body
- You are on blood thinners or have a medical condition which is untreated
- You have been pregnant for more than 9 weeks
If any of the above seem relevant to you, we recommend that you consult a doctor regarding alternative options.
What to Expect After an MTP kit?
Once the MTP kit process is complete, know that your body will take some time to return to normal. Here is what you can expect:
- Light(er) bleeding for up to two weeks
- Mood swings and hormonal fluctuations which should settle in a few days
- Your period should return in about 4 to 6 days
- Since your fertility returns quickly, you can get pregnant again almost immediately, hence you may consider control if required.
If you happen to experience prolonged bleeding or severe pain, or signs of infection, reach out to our gynaecologists for guidance.
Final Thoughts
Whatever emotions you are feeling right now are valid. It’s okay if you feel sad or relieved or even nothing at all. There is no ‘right’ way to feel after or before an MTP kit. Remember that you are not alone, your body is strong and knows what to do. Abortion pill side effects and the process can feel overwhelming but with the right care, most symptoms pass quickly.
How can Proactive for Her help?
We believe every woman deserve judgement-free, trauma-informed, compassionate healthcare. Our experts provide safe, confidential consultations to guide you through the process safely. Whether you need help understanding MTP kit safety, managing MTP kit side effects or recognizing post-abortion symptoms- we are here for you.
Seal of Her Approval
“I was terrified when I first realized that I needed to use an MTP kit and there was so much misinformation online, I didn’t know whom to trust. Proactive has treated me with so much care and zero judgement, I can tell you that you are not alone and you deserve the compassionate, stigma free healthcare that they gave me. The doctor explained everything clearly and knowing that I had access to professional care made me feel safe and in charge of my decision.”
- Anonymous
FAQs
Q. What are the common side effects of using an MTP kit?
Ans. Few common side effects of using an MTP Kit are abdominal pain, abdominal cramping, nausea, diarrhea and dizziness. If you experience a very heavy vaginal bleeding or any side effect, please consult with your gynecologist.
Q. How long do MTP kit side effects typically last?
Ans. The side effects of an MTP kit, which is used for medical abortion, usually last a few days to a week. However, some light spotting or bleeding can continue for up to 2-4 weeks depending on the individual.
Q. Are there any serious risks associated with MTP kits?
Ans. Medical abortions are considered safe and effective. Complications are rare, but there are no long-term health risks associated with medical abortion. It’s important to take all medications as prescribed, not following instructions can pose health risks.
Q. What should I do if I experience severe side effects from an MTP kit?
Ans. Any chills, fevers, or nausea you have should go away pretty quickly. Contact your doctor right away if you have nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or a fever for more than 24 hours. It could be a sign of an infection.
Q. Can MTP kit side effects affect future pregnancies?
Ans. A properly used MTP kit should not negatively affect future pregnancies, the majority of women who have a medical abortion experience no complications and are able to get pregnant again without issues.
Q. Are allergic reactions possible with MTP kits?
Ans. This depends from person to person, we recommend you consult your doctor and inform them of any allergies or reactions you may have with medications.
Q. How can I manage pain or discomfort after using an MTP kit?
Ans. To manage pain or discomfort after using an MTP kit, you can use a heating pad, rest well, stay hydrated, and monitor your bleeding closely; if the pain is severe or you experience concerning symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Q. Is heavy bleeding normal after taking an MTP kit?
Ans. Yes, experiencing heavy bleeding after taking an MTP kit is considered normal, especially within the first few hours after taking the medication, as it is a common side effect. However, if the bleeding is excessively heavy, accompanied by pain, fever, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Q. Are there any long-term health effects from using an MTP kit?
Ans. Generally, abortion pills are safe and effective. It's a common way to have an abortion, and millions of people use it safely during pregnancy. Hence, there are no common long-term side effects of using an MTP kit.