Medical Abortion Services

• You are under 9 weeks gestation (63 days).
• You prefer a non-surgical abortion option. You are medically assessed as suitable for abortion pills.

Eligibility is confirmed during your consultation via an ultrasound and a review of your medical history.

Medical abortion is a two-step process:

Step 1: Hormonal Blocking Medication

• The first tablet blocks the hormone progesterone, which is essential for the pregnancy to continue.
• This tablet is usually taken in the clinic or provided during your telehealth consultation.

Step 2: Expulsion Medication

• The second medication (4 tablets) causes the uterus to expel the pregnancy.
• Most patients experience bleeding and cramping within 4–6 hours of taking this medication.

If you don’t have a support person, inform our team during your consultation. We will provide tailored advice and support to ensure your safety during the process.

To manage cramping and pain:

• Use prescribed pain medication or over-the-counter options like ibuprofen.
• Apply heat therapy with a hot water bottle or heat pack.
• Practice light uterine massage, as demonstrated by our nurses.

MSI Australia offers free aftercare where trained nurses can address your concerns, including symptoms like prolonged bleeding or pain. Call 1300 888 022 if you need help.

An uncomplicated medical abortion will not affect your chance of becoming pregnant in the future.

To reduce the chances of infection, do not insert anything into your vagina for 1 week.

• This includes tampons, menstrual cups, fingers, or having vaginal intercourse.
• If you intend to use the vaginal ring or a diaphragm for contraception, please discuss this with the doctor at your appointment.

These are some symptoms you will probably experience during your medical abortion. If you experience any of the uncommon symptoms or are worried about anything you’re feeling, you can call our free 24/7 support line on 1300 888 022.

Bleeding

You will probably bleed more than your usual menstrual period, bleeding should get lighter after the pregnancy has passed.

• You may also pass some clots, which can be different sizes.
• You can expect to have some bleeding for around 2 weeks.
• You may have some light bleeding until your next period.

 Call us if you experience very heavy bleeding, such as:

• soaking through a maxi-pad every 30 minutes for more than 2 hours
• passing clots larger than a tennis ball size
• heavy bleeding lasting more than 2 weeks.

Abdominal pain

Pain in your abdomen (lower tummy) is normal and can range from mild to strong. Pain should get better after the pregnancy has passed. Strong cramping does not usually last longer than 24 hours. If you have pain in your abdomen, there are some tips in the pain management section of this book.

 Call us if you have:

• strong cramping that does not get better with pain medication
• strong cramping for more than 24 hours
• concerns about your health.

Other side effects of medication

• You are within the first 63 days of gestation.
• You value a more private and convenient abortion option.
• Generally suitable for most, but not recommended if you have bleeding disorders or experience adrenal gland problems.
• You live in rural or remote areas. Learn more about our abortion by telehealth (teleabortion service)

MSI Australia provides medical abortion services in:

• Sydney
• Melbourne
• Brisbane
• Perth
• Other cities and regions

A medical abortion is similar to a miscarriage but induced by medication. Both experiences can vary significantly between individuals.

Step 1 typically causes no noticeable effects. Step 2 leads to bleeding and cramping, varying in intensity. Temporary nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and chills may occur but usually subside within hours.

Most patients expel the pregnancy within 4-6 hours of the second medication. Expect intense cramping and heavy bleeding with clots during this period. Symptoms generally ease after expulsion, with light bleeding potentially lasting several weeks.

Abdominal pain ranges from mild to strong but typically improves after pregnancy expulsion. Severe cramping rarely lasts beyond 24 hours. Pain medication is provided, and our medical abortion booklet offers additional management tips.

Post-procedure follow-up involves a Low Sensitivity Urine Pregnancy (LSUP) test and a symptom questionnaire. This is typically done 2-3 weeks after taking the medication, with exact timing discussed during your initial appointment. A negative LSUP result and no health concerns usually mean no further appointments are needed. If the test is positive or you have any worries, contact us to schedule a review.

The process involves two medications. Step 1 is one tablet taken at the clinic or home. Step 2 consists of four tablets taken at home 36-48 hours later. Additional pain and anti-nausea medications are provided. Dosage instructions are explained during your appointment.