What is Medical Termination of Pregnancy?

Medical termination of pregnancy is a medical procedure to end the pregnancy.

When can MTP be done?

MTP in India can be done up to 20 weeks of pregnancy. Additionally, as per the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Act, 2021 the gestational limit for termination of pregnancy in India has been increased up to 24 weeks for women who fall under special cases.

How is MTP done?

After confirming the period of your pregnancy through an ultrasound, and eliminating any other infections or medical conditions your gynaecologist will schedule you for MTP.

During the early stages of pregnancy- up to 9 weeks, MTP can be achieved using medicines alone. Medicines can be given orally or intravenously, once consumed they stop the growth of pregnancy followed by the shedding of the uterine lining through cramping and bleeding.

After 9 weeks MTP can be achieved through other methods. Dilation of the cervix followed by curettage or suction method are the surgical procedures that can terminate pregnancy in later stages. These procedures require anaesthesia- local or general as needed. 

MTP involves high risk and is thus done under the supervision of a gynaecologist even during the earlier stages of pregnancy.

Who can opt for MTP?

•       If medical conditions in the mother-to-be can make pregnancy life-threatening for her
•       When there is a risk of the child being born with birth defects
•       Failure of contraception in married couples
•       Pregnancy caused by sexual abuse
•       Married women whose marital status may change during pregnancy

Whose consent is required for MTP?

Legally the approval of only the pregnant woman is required for MTP.

Are there any complications of MTP?

Some complications that can be experienced after MTP include-

•       Bleeding lasting for more than two weeks
•       Fever
•       Increased or foul-smelling vaginal discharge
•       Severe abdominal pain
•       Redness or itching in the genital area
•       Infection

This is general information issued in the public interest. Please contact your doctor for more details.