Understanding the Difference Between Medical and Surgical Abortion

When considering abortion options, it is important to understand the two primary methods: Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTOP) and Surgical Termination of Pregnancy (STOP). Both are safe and effective, but they differ in procedure, timing, and setting. Below is an overview of the key differences to help clients make informed decisions about their care.

What is Medical Abortion?

A medical abortion involves the use of medication to end a pregnancy. It is non-invasive and can be completed in the privacy of a client’s home.

Key Features of MTOP:

• How it Works: MTOP involves taking two medications, mifepristone and misoprostol.

  • Mifepristone: Blocks the hormone progesterone, which is needed for the pregnancy to continue.
  • Misoprostol: Induces uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy tissue.

• Timing: MTOP is safe and legal up to 9 weeks (63 days) gestation.

• Setting: The medication is administered at home, after consultation via telehealth or in a clinic.

• Recovery: Client’s experience moderate to heavy vaginal bleeding, more than their normal 1 day period in the 24hrs following Step 2 (Misoprostol). Client experiences light to moderate inconsistent vaginal bleeding for up to 4 weeks.

• Follow-Up: Clients require follow-up to confirm the termination is complete, often through a phone call, blood test or urine test.

Benefits of MTOP:

• Non-invasive and does not involve surgery.
• Can be managed in the comfort and privacy of home.
• No need for anaesthesia or medical instruments.
• Offers flexibility in scheduling consultations, particularly via telehealth.
• A person support people can be present for the procedure at home.

Limitations of MTOP:

• Discomfort and bleeding can be intense and emotionally challenging for some clients.
• The medication is taken over 24-48hrs.
• 1% of people having a medical abortion will have a continuing pregnancy and may require a further medical or surgical abortion.

What is STOP?

STOP, or Surgical Termination of Pregnancy, involves a procedure performed by a trained healthcare provider to remove pregnancy tissue from the uterus. It is typically conducted in a clinic or hospital setting.

Key Features of STOP:

• How it Works: The most common method of STOP is suction curettage (vacuum aspiration), which uses gentle suction to remove pregnancy tissue from the uterus.
• Timing: STOP is available up to 24 weeks gestation in most jurisdictions, depending on local state laws.
• Setting: The procedure is performed in a clinic or hospital by a trained doctor.
• Recovery: The procedure itself is brief, usually lasting 10–15 minutes, with most clients returning home the same day.
• Follow-Up: Typically, no routine follow-up is required unless complications arise.

Benefits of STOP:

• Quick and efficient; the entire process is often completed in a few hours.
• Suitable for pregnancies before & beyond 9 weeks gestation.
• Minimal bleeding compared to MTOP.
• Highly effective, with a very low risk of incomplete abortion.

Limitations of STOP:

• Involves a surgical procedure and requires anaesthesia. Anaesthesia carries its own risk.
• Requires attendance at a clinic or hospital, which may not be accessible for all clients.
• Some clients may experience emotional or physical discomfort due to the surgical environment.
• Higher cost compared to MTOP in some settings.

Choosing Between MTOP and STOP

Factors to Consider:

1. Gestational Age:
   • MTOP is generally an option up to 9 weeks gestation.
   • STOP is available for pregnancies up to 24 weeks in most jurisdictions.
2. Personal Preferences:
   • Some clients prefer the privacy and autonomy of MTOP.
   • Others may prefer the speed and efficiency of STOP.
3. Medical History:
   • Clients with specific medical conditions (e.g., bleeding disorders) may not be eligible for MTOP.
   • STOP may be recommended if MTOP is unsuccessful or contraindicated.
4. Access to Care:
   • Telehealth has made MTOP accessible to many clients, especially in rural and remote areas.
   • STOP requires travel to a clinic or hospital, which may pose logistical challenges.
5. Emotional Considerations:
   • MTOP allows clients to process the experience in a familiar environment but may involve prolonged symptoms.
   • STOP is quicker but involves a clinical setting, which some clients may find distressing.

Conclusion

Both MTOP and STOP are safe and effective methods of abortion, with distinct advantages and limitations. At Aunty Jane, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help clients choose the option that best meets their needs and circumstances. If you have questions or need guidance, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

The information provided on this website by Aunty Jane in any format or medium, are for general information purposes only and are not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. The information made available by Aunty Jane do not provide personalised medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. To the extent permitted by law, Aunty Jane disclaims all liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information provided. For specific medical concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.