Medical Abortion

Unfortunately, not all pregnancies develop normally, and various complications can arise, such as a blighted ovum, absence of a heartbeat, or detachment of the gestation sac. These situations may require the termination of pregnancy for medical reasons. Additionally, in North Macedonia, the termination of pregnancy is legal during early gestation, up to 12 weeks of pregnancy. There are two methods for terminating a pregnancy: medical (using medication) and surgical (instrumental). Medical abortion is often the method of choice during early gestation.

Medical termination of pregnancy can be carried out up to the 63rd day from the first day of the last menstrual period. After this period, the effectiveness of the method significantly decreases. Before the procedure, the presence of an intrauterine pregnancy is confirmed by ultrasound, and the gestational age is accurately verified. The procedure involves two oral medications taken at specific intervals. The first tablet contains an antihormone that blocks the effect of progesterone (the pregnancy hormone). The second drug, a prostaglandin analogue, is taken 36 hours after the first medication. The abortion usually occurs within a few hours after taking the second drug or by the next day. Vaginal bleeding similar to menstruation follows, which may be accompanied by pelvic pain and discomfort. This bleeding typically lasts for several days and gradually decreases over time.

It is important to note that the presence and cessation of vaginal bleeding do not necessarily indicate a successful medical abortion. For this reason, a follow-up ultrasound scan is performed 2 to 3 weeks after the procedure to evaluate the intrauterine contents. The primary advantage of medical termination of pregnancy is that it does not require hospitalization, or surgical intervention, and does not affect future fertility. However, the method is not applicable in the later stages of pregnancy. Additionally, in some cases, the abortion may be incomplete, requiring further surgical evacuation of the uterus.

For more information about the possibility of undergoing a medical abortion at Hospital Plodnost, please consult your doctor or contact our registration desk.