Abortion is typically performed in cases of unplanned pregnancy or when it poses serious health concerns to the woman if the pregnancy continues. In Singapore, abortion is regulated under the Termination of Pregnancy Act. Abortion is allowed only within 24 weeks of the pregnancy unless the mother’s life is at risk or if the foetus has significant anomalies.
Depending on the stage of pregnancy and the individual’s health, an abortion can be carried out either via medication (abortion pills) or through a surgical procedure. Being informed about these procedures can help women make a decision that aligns with their personal circumstances and health needs.
Types of Abortion
1. Medical Abortion
A medical abortion, or abortion pill, is a non-surgical method that involves the use of medicine to end a pregnancy. It is often recommended for early-stage pregnancies, specifically for women who are less than 7 weeks pregnant.
In Singapore, there are two types of medication used to terminate pregnancies effectively. These include:
Mifepristone:
Mifepristone works by blocking progesterone, a hormone essential to maintaining pregnancy, from reaching the uterus. Without progesterone, the uterus's lining breaks down, detaching the pregnancy from the uterine wall.Misoprostol:
Misoprostol helps open up the neck of the womb to contract the uterine muscles and expel the pregnancy tissue. This medication is taken approximately 24 to 48 hours after mifepristone and can be administered either orally or inserted into the vagina.
Side Effects of Medical Abortion
It is common for women to experience side effects after a medical abortion, although they are temporary and resolve within a few days.
Possible side effects include:
- Abdominal cramps
- Bleeding accompanied by the passage of clots
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Fatigue
Potential Risks and Complications of Medical Abortion
If not properly supervised, a medical abortion may carry certain risks and complications, such as:
- Incomplete abortion requiring follow-up surgery
- Infection and fever
- Heavy and continuous bleeding
- Adverse reactions to medication
- Digestive symptoms, such as stomach discomfort
2. Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion involves removing pregnancy tissues vaginally by an experienced doctor using specialised instruments or suction. This method is generally performed at the later stages of pregnancy, particularly when a medical abortion is not viable. Doctors often recommend surgical abortion due to its safety and high success rates.
Depending on the gestational age, surgical abortions may involve several techniques, such as:
Vacuum Aspiration:
The doctor inserts a speculum into the vagina and cervix and uses a thin rod (dilator) to open the cervix. A small tube (cannula) is then carefully placed into the uterus to extract pregnancy tissue through vacuum suction.Dilation and Curettage (D&C):
This procedure involves expanding the cervix to gently scrape off pregnancy tissue from the inner lining of the uterus using a sharp spoon-shaped instrument called a curette.
Both methods are carried out under local or general anaesthesia to ensure patients remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
Potential Risks and Complications of Surgical Abortion
Like all medical interventions, surgical abortion may carry inherent risks and complications, although they are very low when performed by an accredited doctor.
Some possible risks and complications include:
- Uterine perforation (hole in the uterus wall)
- Uterine scarring (causing future infertility and painful periods)
- Infection
- Moderate to severe vaginal bleeding
- Injury to the womb or cervix
- Incomplete removal of pregnancy tissue
Choosing the Right Type of Abortion
Choosing which type of abortion to undergo requires careful consideration and care. Women must evaluate various factors that may influence their choice, including the stage of pregnancy, personal circumstances, and medical history.
Before an abortion procedure, doctors will first determine the gestational age (weeks of pregnancy) and blood tests. Understanding the results of these tests can significantly impact the decision-making process and ensure that women receive safe and appropriate care.
Moreover, the decision to have an abortion may evoke a range of feelings, such as guilt, sadness, or bouts of anxiety. It is essential for women to have access to supportive resources and counselling services to help them navigate these complex emotions.
Key Takeaway
Deciding to undergo an abortion should be made after careful consideration of all available options. Each method carries its own unique procedures, benefits, and risks to consider.
At the Women’s Clinic of Singapore, we are committed to providing comprehensive support and care to help patients navigate this challenging situation. Dr Jen focuses on patients’ safety and privacy and offers personalised pre-abortion counselling and screening to ensure your well-being throughout the process. Book a consultation at our clinic today.
