Therapeutic Abortion

A therapeutic abortion, also known as a medical abortion or termination of pregnancy for medical reasons, is a procedure to end a pregnancy when it poses a risk to the health or life of the mother, or when the fetus has a severe medical condition that would lead to significant suffering or death after birth.

Indications

The indications for therapeutic abortion include:

• Pregnancy-related complications, such as preeclampsia, placenta previa, or placental abruption, that threaten the mother's health or life.
• Fetal anomalies or genetic disorders that are incompatible with life or would lead to significant suffering after birth, such as anencephaly or trisomy 13.
• Maternal medical conditions, such as heart disease, cancer, or severe mental illness, that would be exacerbated by continuing the pregnancy.

Types of Therapeutic Abortion

There are two main types of therapeutic abortion:

• Surgical abortion: This involves a surgical procedure to remove the fetus and placenta from the uterus. The type of surgery used depends on the gestational age of the pregnancy.
• Medical abortion: This involves taking medication to induce labor and expel the fetus and placenta from the uterus. Medical abortion is typically used for earlier pregnancies, up to 10 weeks' gestation.

Risks and Complications

As with any medical procedure, therapeutic abortion carries risks and potential complications, including:

• Bleeding or hemorrhage
• Infection
• Damage to the uterus or cervix
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia or medication
• Emotional or psychological distress

Counseling and Support

Women undergoing therapeutic abortion should receive counseling and support to help them make an informed decision and cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of the procedure. This may include:

• Prenatal counseling to discuss the indications for the procedure and the potential risks and benefits.
• Emotional support and counseling to address any feelings of grief, guilt, or anxiety.
• Follow-up care to monitor physical and emotional recovery after the procedure.

Legality and Accessibility

The legality and accessibility of therapeutic abortion vary by country and region. In some areas, therapeutic abortion is only permitted in cases where the mother's life is at risk, while in others it may be available for a broader range of indications.