THE MARIE STOPES MEDICAL (ABORTION) PROCESS.

WHAT IS THE MARIE STOPES MEDICAL PROCESS?

It is the name for the medication abortion process used in our centres. It is an alternative to a surgical abortion.

WHEN CAN A WOMAN HAVE A MARIE STOPES MEDICAL PROCESS (MSMP)?

A woman can have a Marie Stopes Medical Process at any time, provided:

·         The pregnancy is less than 9 weeks.

·         There are no medical contra-indications (medical reasons causing her not to qualify for this procedure).

e.g. Severe asthma, high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease.

WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE THAT WILL BE FOLLOWED.

At the clinic:

• The woman will first undergo a scan.
• Various options will be discussed during counseling.
• The medial history will be taken and assessed.
• If she chooses a MSMP, the first tablet will be administered orally at the center.
• The woman will be given a pack with the following:

*4 tablets to be taken at home.

*Pain killers in case of discomfort

*An AFTERCARE document with extra information about the process.

*Important contact telephone numbers to ensure the woman has all the support she may need

  in case she has any enquiries or concerns.

At home:

• The remaining four tablets are taken together within the next 24 – 48 hours.
• Cramps and fairly heavy bleeding may be experienced anytime within 30 minutes to several hours after taking the pills.

·         After about two days lighter bleeding or spotting may continue for 2 weeks and in rare cases up to 3 weeks.

The follow up visit.

• It is important to return to the centre three weeks after the first visit.
• It is important to confirm that the process has been successful.

Note: In the highly unlikely event the MSMP process has not been successful, the woman will undergo a surgical abortion at no extra cost.

• Family Planning options will be discussed and recommendations given.

ADVANTAGES OF A MSMP.

• It is confidential and non - invasive.
• It is affordable.
• International experience has found the Medical Process very safe.
• There is full support and counseling from trained professionals.
• It is a highly effective method.
• The process involves branded medication of the highest quality.
• The process is legal.
• Women can continue to breastfeed if needed 24 hours after taking the first pill and 24 hours after taking the second dose of pills.

WHEN IS A MSMP UNSUITABLE?

Unfortunately a Medical Abortion is unsuitable for any woman in the following circumstances:

·         If she is more than 9 weeks pregnant

·         If she has a suspected ectopic pregnancy ( not in the womb, e.g. in the tube )

·         If she has an IUD (Loop) in place. The IUD must be removed before the MSMP can be given.

·         If she is allergic to any of the medication used for MSMP.

·         If she is taking certain medication or suffers from certain medical conditions – This will be evaluated when a medical history is taken at the center.

AREAS OF CONCERN:

·         The process requires a second visit to the Centre.

·         As with any medication, there may be unpleasant side effect. e.g. cramping, nausea.

·         There is a need to abstain from sexual intercourse for 2 weeks.

Please note: It is important that anyone enquiring about abortion services of
any kind should:

1.       Discuss their medical history with a qualified / properly trained health professional.

2.       Obtain counseling as to the options available to them.

3.       Ensure the facility is legally designated.

For further information or to make a confidential booking

 please call our

Toll Free Number: 0800 11 77 85