Medical Termination of Pregnancy
Medical termination of pregnancy is abortion using medicines that stop pregnancy support and cause the uterus to empty.
Key takeaways
- Pregnancy location and gestation must be assessed because the medicines do not treat ectopic pregnancy.
- Expected cramping and bleeding are distinguished from haemorrhage, infection or ongoing pregnancy through clear follow-up instructions.
- Local law, consent, safeguarding, blood group and medical history form part of a safe clinical pathway.
The listings below are not instructions for unsupervised use; authorised reproductive-health care should assess and supply treatment.
Before treatment
Assessment confirms pregnancy, estimates gestation and evaluates ectopic risk, anaemia, bleeding disorders, anticoagulants, allergy and long-term corticosteroid use. Ultrasound is used when dates or location are uncertain rather than automatically in every pathway.
What care includes
Mifepristone followed by misoprostol is commonly used, with regimen and setting determined by gestation and guidance. Pain relief, anti-nausea support, access to emergency care and confirmation of completion are essential. Contraception can usually begin promptly if desired.
When to seek urgent care
Seek emergency care for very heavy bleeding, fainting, severe or one-sided pain, shoulder-tip pain, fever persisting after treatment, foul discharge, confusion or feeling severely unwell.