What to Expect After Taking an MTP Kit at Home

Self-initiating a medical abortion at home with an MTP Kit is an ideal choice for early pregnancy. However, it is must to stay aware about the pill’s action mechanism, dosage, and what are the common expectations, along with warning signs of complications. Knowing these details will prepare you better for a smooth recovery.

1. Medical Abortion Timeline

Let us first understand how much time it may take for an MTP Kit to complete the abortion process. Remember that dosing itself is a step-by-step procedure. On day 1, you take Mifepristone 200mg orally with water. It blocks progesterone hormone to detach pregnancy portions from the uterine wall.

After 24 to 48 hours, take 4 x Misoprostol 200mcg pills either buccally or sublingually by letting pills dissolve in the mouth. Or, vaginally insert Misoprostol, melting in the vaginal tract over 30 minutes. The uterine contractions may begin in 1 to 4 hours associated with cramping and bleeding to empty the uterus. The pill also dilates the cervix.

For the pregnancy to successfully terminate, it may take 4-5 days along with the dose, or up to a week for some, especially those close to 9-12 weeks pregnant.

2. Strong Abdominal Cramping and Pain

The intensity of cramps is moderate to strong. It is more severe than menstrual cramps. These crampings indicate that the MTP Kit is working properly to empty the uterus. The pain is at the peak in the initial 4 to 6 hours, or until the pregnancy tissues pass away from the uterus completely. You can use pain relievers available over-the-counter to lower the pain.

3. Heavy Vaginal Bleeding and Blood Clots

As the uterine contractions increase, the shed endometrial lining and separated pregnancy tissues get flushed out through heavy vaginal bleeding. The blood flow is heaviest the first day of using Misoprostol. You may see small to large blood clots with pieces of tissues in it.

4. Mild Fever, Chills, and Flushes

Since the medical abortion with MTP Kit has some physical effects, you may experience mild fever and chills for a short duration. A low-degree fever may linger for a few hours or a day. It may go down gradually after you take antipyretic medicine.

5. Nausea, Diarrhea, Bloating

The prostaglandin pills cause muscle contractions not just in the uterus but have effect on the digestive tract temporarily as well. This can lead to nausea, vomiting, bloating, diarrhea, or abdominal gas. It is advisable to drink plenty of water and take electrolyte-based drinks to replenish minerals. You can also consider warm herbal tea but avoid caffeinated beverages and energy drinks.

6. Mood Swings and Emotional Turbulence

It is possible to experience fluctuations in mood and emotions from the decision of getting an abortion. The pills may also lead to decline in progesterone hormone, which may further elevate these feelings and emotions. You can seek reassurance from a trusted person, friend, or partner. Or, consult a counsellor if need arises.

7. Reduction in Symptoms After MTP Kit Medication Course

In the first couple of weeks, some minor side effects may continue. The bleeding is still moderate but turning to lighter flow. By the third week, the bleeding reduces to spotting, and may continue for up to 4-6 weeks. You should avoid physical exertion and vaginal intercourse, or using tampons and menstrual cups until then. The body gradually resets to its original rhythm over these weeks.

8. Recovery and Self-Care Needs

To check for the success of abortion, a follow-up pregnancy test via ultrasound is recommended after 2 weeks of the procedure. But right after pregnancy termination, it may take a couple of days to resume normal and light chores. Stay away from physical hard work for the initial couple of weeks. Avoid heavy lifting and workouts. Engage in activities that make you happy and take some time off for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the common FAQs about MTP Kit home abortion-related expectations:

1. How do I reduce pain and other side effects?

You may take pain relief meds for pain reduction, antiemetic medicine to combat vomiting and nausea, antipyretic pills to control fever, apply a hot water bag or heating pad for cramps relief, drink plenty of water, and take sufficient rest for comfort.

2. Can I use an MTP Kit while breastfeeding?

Yes, you may take the pills during nursing a child. The pill contents may get into the breast milk after dosage. So, it is advisable to arrange milk supply for the infant beforehand. You can resume breastfeeding after the abortion procedure is over.

3. How do I manage the abortion bleeding?

Bleeding is heavy during a medication abortion. Keep track of the flow using large-sized sanitary pads. Do not rely on tampons and menstrual cups. If the bleeding is excessive, you may take a hemostatic agent. However, contact a doctor if the bleeding is heavier than the normal standards for abortion.

4. How soon can I return to work after the abortion?

You can resume light activities after a couple of days of the abortion completion. Within a week, you can perform your regular activities. But do not physically strain yourself while the bleeding lasts.

5. When can I conceive again?

Ovulation can happen in 8-11 days after pregnancy termination. Some females may get their menstrual period after 4 to 6 weeks of the procedure. The timeline for fertility return may differ but the pills do not cause any long-term impact on future pregnancy chances.