This archive report was first published on 7 November 2019.
Safe Abortions: A Guide to Surgical and Medical Abortions ¶
Abortion remains a contentious issue in Kenya, where it is only legal to save a mother's life. Despite this, women still seek safe abortion procedures, often due to unwanted pregnancies resulting from rape or failed birth control.
Published on November 7, 2019, this article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to surgical and medical abortions, highlighting their risks and benefits.
Surgical Abortions ¶
Surgical abortions are the most common procedure in countries where abortion is legal. In Kenya, this method is only available when a medical doctor deems it necessary to save a mother's life.
During the first trimester, surgical abortions are typically performed under twilight sedation, with a small tube inserted into the uterus to remove the zygote and uterine lining. The procedure takes around 10 minutes and allows the woman to go home once the anesthesia wears off.
However, surgical abortions come with risks, including incomplete abortion, damage to the cervix, uterine perforation, and hemorrhage.
Reasons to Choose Surgical Abortions ¶
- It can be performed after 9 weeks of pregnancy.
- There is less bleeding and cramping compared to medical abortions.
- It can be done under twilight sedation, reducing pain.
- It has a high success rate and minimal complications.
- After a surgical abortion, women can still breastfeed.
Medical Abortions ¶
Medical abortions are a non-surgical option available in countries where abortion is legal. In Kenya, this method is only available when recommended by a doctor.
Medical abortions involve taking a combination of pills, which work together to terminate the pregnancy. The first pill is administered either at the doctor's office or at home, while the second pill is taken between 24 to 48 hours later.
However, medical abortions also come with risks, including incomplete abortion and excessive bleeding.
