Medically induced abortion, also known as induced abortion or termination of pregnancy, is the intentional termination of a pregnancy through the use of medications or medical procedures.

This procedure is performed for various reasons, such as medical complications, unplanned pregnancies, or fetal abnormalities. While the primary goal of medically induced abortion is to end the pregnancy, many individuals wonder what happens to conception during this process.

In this article, we will explore the effects of medically induced abortion on conception and discuss the different methods used.

Understanding Conception

Conception, also referred to as fertilization, is the process where a sperm cell fertilizes an egg, resulting in the formation of a new individual. During sexual intercourse, millions of sperm cells are ejaculated into the vagina.

These sperm cells then travel through the cervix and into the fallopian tubes, where the eggs are located.

Once a sperm cell successfully penetrates the egg, the genetic material from both the sperm and the egg combine to form a single cell called a zygote. This zygote contains all the genetic information required for the development of a new individual.

The zygote then undergoes a series of cell divisions, eventually forming an embryo that implants itself into the lining of the uterus.

Medically Induced Abortion Methods

There are several methods of medically induced abortion, each with its own mechanisms and effects on conception. Let’s take a closer look at the most common methods:.

1. Medication abortion (Abortion Pill)

Medication abortion, also known as the abortion pill, involves the use of medication to terminate a pregnancy. This method is typically recommended for early pregnancies, up to 10 weeks gestation.

The abortion pill contains two medications, mifepristone and misoprostol.

Mifepristone works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for maintaining a pregnancy. Without sufficient progesterone, the uterine lining begins to break down, cutting off the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the developing embryo.

This leads to the detachment of the embryo from the uterine wall and its subsequent expulsion.

Misoprostol is usually taken 24 to 48 hours after taking mifepristone to induce uterine contractions. These contractions help expel the contents of the uterus, including the embryo or fetus.

2. Manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) or suction abortion

Manual vacuum aspiration, also known as suction abortion, is a procedure performed by healthcare providers in a clinic or hospital setting. This method is typically used between 6 to 12 weeks gestation.

During the procedure, a thin tube attached to a suction device is gently inserted into the uterus. The suction helps remove the contents of the uterus, including the embryo or fetus.

The embryo or fetus, along with the placenta and uterine lining, is suctioned out of the uterus and collected in a container.

3. Dilation and curettage (D&C)

Dilation and curettage, commonly referred to as D&C, is a surgical procedure performed in a hospital or clinic. This method is typically used after 12 weeks gestation.

During the procedure, the cervix is dilated using medical instruments. A curette, a thin, spoon-shaped instrument, is then inserted into the uterus to gently scrape and remove the contents, including the embryo or fetus, placenta, and uterine lining.

What happens to Conception during Medically Induced Abortion?

Medically induced abortion terminates the pregnancy by removing the embryo or fetus from the uterus. The specific effects on conception depend on the method used:.

1. Medication abortion (Abortion Pill)

In the case of medication abortion, the abortion pill works by blocking progesterone, causing the detachment of the embryo from the uterine wall.

The subsequent administration of misoprostol induces uterine contractions, leading to the expulsion of the embryo.

Since the embryo is detached from the uterine wall and expelled, it cannot continue developing into a fetus. Conception is interrupted, and the process of pregnancy ceases to progress.

2. Manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) or suction abortion

Suction abortion directly removes the embryo or fetus from the uterus using gentle suction. The embryo or fetus, along with the placenta and uterine lining, is suctioned out of the uterus and removed from the body.

Similar to medication abortion, this method interrupts the process of conception by physically removing the embryo from the uterus, preventing further development.

3. Dilation and curettage (D&C)

D&C involves scraping the contents of the uterus, including the embryo or fetus, placenta, and uterine lining. This surgical procedure completely removes the pregnancy tissues from the uterus.

D&C ensures the termination of the pregnancy by physically removing the embryo or fetus. Conception is halted, and the natural progression of pregnancy ends.

After Medically Induced Abortion

Following a medically induced abortion, the body typically goes through a healing process. The uterus sheds the remaining uterine lining and any lingering pregnancy tissues.

The menstrual cycle may resume within a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on various factors.

It’s essential to note that medically induced abortion does not affect future fertility significantly.

In most cases, individuals who have undergone medically induced abortion can conceive and carry a pregnancy to term when they decide to do so in the future.

Conclusion

Medically induced abortion effectively terminates a pregnancy for various reasons. Whether through medication abortion, suction abortion, or D&C, the process removes the embryo or fetus from the uterus, interrupting the process of conception.

Understanding the methods and subsequent effects can help individuals make informed decisions about their reproductive health.