O04: Medical abortion

Medical abortion is a cluster of conditions that involve the intentional termination of a pregnancy using medication. This group of procedures is typically used within the first few weeks of pregnancy. The medicines cause cramping and bleeding similar to a miscarriage to expel the pregnancy from the uterus. There may be some physical discomfort and emotional distress associated with this process. While these procedures are usually safe, possible complications include incomplete abortion, heavy bleeding, infection, or a continued pregnancy if the procedure doesn't work. Medical abortions do not affect a woman's fertility or future pregnancies. Periodic check-ups and follow-up tests with healthcare professionals are important after a medical abortion to ensure the procedure was complete and no complications arose.