What is a medical abortion?
A medical abortion is a way of ending a pregnancy using medication instead of a surgical procedure. The medication causes the pregnancy to pass in a process similar to a miscarriage, with cramping and bleeding.
The World Health Organization describes abortion as a common health intervention that is very safe when it is carried out using a recommended method, appropriate to the duration of the pregnancy, by someone with the necessary skills. That last part matters: the right method, at the right stage, with proper clinical support.
Who it may be appropriate for
Medical abortion is generally used earlier in pregnancy. Whether it is appropriate for you depends on things only an assessment can establish, including:
- how many weeks pregnant you are
- your general health and medical history
- any medicines you take or conditions you have
- your own circumstances and preferences
This page cannot tell you whether you are eligible, and we do not offer any online tool that does. That decision is made with a healthcare professional.
How eligibility is determined
Your clinician first needs to establish how far along the pregnancy is. This is usually worked out from the first day of your last menstrual period, and an ultrasound scan or examination may be used where it is clinically needed. They will also ask about your health, previous pregnancies and any symptoms such as pain or bleeding.
Why a clinical assessment matters
The assessment is what makes treatment safe for you as an individual. It allows the clinician to:
- choose a method suited to the stage of pregnancy
- identify conditions or medicines that could make medication unsuitable
- recognise situations that need a different kind of care
- make sure you understand what will happen and what to watch for afterwards
Medication obtained without an assessment, or from an unregulated seller, carries real risks. If you have already taken something and are worried, contact a healthcare professional — you will be treated without judgement.
What the consultation involves
A consultation is a private conversation. You can expect the clinician to explain who they are, ask about your health and pregnancy, describe the options available to you, and answer your questions. South African law provides for counselling that is non-mandatory and non-directive: it is offered, not forced on you, and it is not there to steer your decision.
What you can expect
Experiences vary, but cramping and bleeding are a normal part of a medical abortion. Your clinician will tell you what is expected for your situation, how to manage discomfort, what to have ready at home, and exactly who to contact if you are unsure about anything.
Follow-up care
Follow-up is how we confirm that the treatment is complete and that you are recovering well. It is also a chance to ask questions you did not think of earlier and to talk about contraception if you want to. Read more about aftercare and follow-up.