Abortion Treatment Cost in India

• 19/06/2024
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Abortion Treatment Cost in India – Medical abortion, also known as medical termination of pregnancy (MTP), is a procedure in which pills are used to end an unwanted pregnancy. Unlike a surgical abortion, a medical abortion is not performed under anaesthesia. However, it is a safe and effective way to terminate a pregnancy in the first trimester, especially up to 10 weeks. 

Medical abortion, or medical termination of pregnancy, is a procedure in which pills are used to end an unwanted pregnancy. Unlike a surgical abortion, a medical abortion is not performed under anaesthesia. However, it is a safe and effective way to terminate a pregnancy in the first trimester, especially up to 10 weeks. 

Types of Abortion 

The type of abortion is the first and most important factor that helps determine the total cost of treatment. Depending on the duration of the pregnancy, the gynaecologist determines what kind of abortion should be performed.

Below mentioned are the two types of abortions-

• Medical Abortion (within 9 weeks of pregnancy)–

  Medical abortion is reserved for women who have not passed the ninth week of pregnancy. For this type of MTP, the pregnant woman needs to take a series of medications, also known as abortion pills. Unlike birth control pills, these drugs are taken twice a day, not necessarily in the morning. It would be best if you had a valid prescription to buy these medications.

• Surgical Abortion (more than 9 weeks of pregnancy)-

  Surgical abortion (more than 9 weeks of pregnancy) – The procedure to terminate a pregnancy through the vagina is known as a surgical abortion. It is indicated for women in their ninth week of pregnancy or later. Depending on the specific week of pregnancy, a different surgical technique is prescribed to remove the fetus from the uterus. Actual costs depend on the surgical technique used. The various kinds of techniques used in surgical abortion are mentioned below:

• Suction Abortion
• D&E
• Induction Abortion
• Late -Term Abortions
• Spontaneous Abortion

Causes of Abortion or Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP)

The stigma around abortion can make it difficult for people to make the decision. However, the common causes of abortion might be:

• Unplanned Pregnancy: Pregnancy that occurs due to contraceptive failure, lack of contraception, or non-consensual sex.
• Financial Instability: Inability to support a child economically, lack of financial resources for prenatal care and child-rearing.
• Health Concerns: Conditions such as severe hypertension (preeclampsia), severe diabetes, heart disease, or infections that pose a significant risk to the mother’s health.
• Fetal Chromosomal Abnormalities: Diagnosis of severe abnormalities or genetic disorders in the fetus that are incompatible with life or would severely impact the quality of life.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: When the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tubes, which is life-threatening for the mother if not terminated.
• Molar Pregnancy: A rare condition where abnormal tissue grows instead of a viable fetus.
• Sexual Assault: Sexual violence is a serious consequence for women that results in an unwanted pregnancy. 
• Not ready emotionally/mentally: Anxiety, depression, or other psychological conditions where continuing the pregnancy would exacerbate the mental health issues or feel emotionally unprepared or unable to cope with the responsibilities of parenthood.

Every situation is unique, and the decision to have an abortion is often complex and deeply personal, influenced by medical, social, financial and emotional factors. People considering abortion must have access to comprehensive health care and support to make informed decisions. 

What is the Cost of Abortion Treatment in India

The cost of abortion in India varies depending on many things such as the type of abortion you need, the gestational age of the pregnancy, the state or health centre where you get care, Whether you have health insurance (private or government insurance) that will help pay for your abortion or Whether you can get other types of financial assistance to help cover the cost of your abortion. Here is the estimated Cost of Abortion in India.

Treatment Name	Starting Cost	Average Cost	Maximum Cost
Medical Abortion	3,000	15,000	30,000
Surgical Abortion	5,000	₹35,000	55,000

What are the Factors Affecting the Cost of Abortion In India

The following factors may affect the overall cost of the procedure. Therefore, one cannot get a definite price for the abortion procedure but rather get a rough calculation. The factors are as follows-

• Skills and expertise of the surgeon
• The cost of abortion treatment can vary significantly depending on the city and region in India.
• Post-surgery care includes sanitary napkins for heavy flow, pain medications, diagnosis etc.
• Insurance coverage

With these factors in mind, patients should carefully evaluate their options and discuss details, including costs, with their healthcare provider before undergoing laparoscopic surgery in India. Finding the most appropriate and effective treatment for your problems should always be a priority. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is abortion legal in India?

Abortion has been legal in India under various circumstances since the introduction of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971, including for those who are not married.

Q2. Is abortion painful?

An abortion can cause pain and cramps, but the discomfort is usually manageable. However, the abortion experience varies from person to person, depending on the type of abortion and the general health of the patient.

Q3. When do periods start after abortion?

A miscarriage starts a new menstrual cycle, so periods should return to normal 4-8 weeks after the miscarriage. 

Q4. Does medical abortion affect future pregnancy?

According to a gynaecologist, a medical or surgical abortion does not affect your fertility and chances of a future pregnancy.