Understanding Medical Abortion: A Complete Guide to Treatment & Care

19 Mar, 2024 | Abortion, Advice, Blog, Contraception

As families prepare to gather for Christmas, there’s a hidden crisis intensifying behind closed doors: reproductive violence, where someone uses coercion, manipulation, pressure or control to dictate another person’s reproductive choices, is affecting thousands of women and pregnant people across our region.

1 in 3 women globally will experience reproductive coercion in their lifetime, including sabotage of contraception, forced pregnancy, prevention or pressure related to abortion care, and financial or emotional threats linked to reproductive decisions.^[1]

In Australia, around 1 in 5 women accessing abortion services report some form of coercion or control from a partner, and frontline counsellors say cases are becoming more complex, particularly during holiday periods when isolation and family pressure escalate.^[2]

“Reproductive violence remains largely invisible, but it is happening right now, in homes, relationships, and families across Australia and the world,” said Grishma Bista, CEO, MSI Asia Pacific.

“No one should face abuse, pressure, or control over their reproductive choices. Access to safe, confidential care is essential, especially at a time of year when family dynamics can amplify risk.”

Holiday season increases risk

The end of the year is a peak period for relationship stress, financial pressure, travel, family expectation and isolation from support networks, all factors that increase risk of reproductive violence and reduce access to help.

MSI Australia’s psychosocial team reports a surge in women disclosing lack of control, fear, or pressure from partners in the lead up to Christmas, particularly around continuing or ending a pregnancy.

“We regularly support clients who are frightened, confused, or unsure if what they are experiencing is abuse,” said Alison Fonseca, Psychosocial Health Manager at MSI Australia.

“Reproductive violence can look like sabotaging contraception, hiding medication, pressuring someone to continue or terminate a pregnancy, or threatening to withdraw financial support. It is gendered violence, and it has devastating consequences.”

Regional impact demands regional action

Across the world, reproductive coercion is deeply connected to gender inequality, stigma, economic dependence, and access to health services. In many countries, there are no legal safeguards, limited counselling services, and severe stigma around reproductive healthcare.

“At MSI, we see resilience every day, people finding the courage to seek help, make their own decisions, and protect their future,” Ms Bista said.

“But access to safe pathways must be funded, protected and strengthened.”

Campaign launching: Help us support safety, choice and care

This Christmas, MSI is launching a donation campaign to support people experiencing reproductive violence, here and overseas.

Funds raised will:

Provide emergency psychosocial support including counselling
Cover the cost of abortion or contraception care for people facing coercion
Support local services in countries where reproductive violence is rarely acknowledged

Every donation, large or small, helps someone make a decision free from control, fear and pressure.

“No one should be forced into or out of a pregnancy,” Ms Fonseca said.

“With community support, we can make sure reproductive choices belong to the person, not their partner, not their family, and not their circumstances.”

Key facts

1 in 5 Australian women seeking abortion report pressure or coercion related to pregnancy decisions
Only 12 out of 43 Asia Pacific countries have legislation enshrining the right to choose the number, timing, and spacing of children ^[3]
Reproductive violence is one of the least recognised forms of gender-based violence, despite being reported in clinical and counselling settings worldwide ^[4]
Family violence is consistently one of the high-recorded months for family violence incidents ^[5]

[1] World Health Organisation. (2021)

[2] MSI Australia. (2020). Hidden Forces: Shining a light on reproductive coercion white paper

[3] IPPF. (2023). Asia Pacific Contraception Policy Atlas.

[4] Tarzia & McKenzie. (2024). Reproductive coercion and abuse in intimate relationships: Women’s perceptions of perpetrator motivations

[5] Crime Statistics Agency. (2025). Family Incidents

Ends

For more information contact Anna Jabour on 0403 322 992

Facing an unplanned pregnancy can be a confusing and overwhelming experience. You’re not alone. If you’re considering a medical abortion, this guide is here to provide clear information and compassionate support as you navigate this decision. It’s okay to feel a range of emotions – uncertainty, fear, or even relief. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about medical abortion, from the process itself to the emotional support available.

Quick links

What is Medical Abortion?

Medical abortion is a safe and effective way to end an early pregnancy using medication rather than surgery. Often referred to as the “abortion pill“, it involves two types of medication a day or two apart.

How Does Medical Abortion Work?

Step 1: Taken by mouth (swallowed), this medication blocks the action of progesterone, a hormone vital for pregnancy.
Step 2: Also taken by mouth (but placed between the cheek and gum), this medication causes the cervix to open and the uterus to contract, expelling the pregnancy tissue.

Understanding what medications are used here.

Important Note: Medical abortion isn’t suitable for everyone. During a consultation, your healthcare provider will assess your situation and determine if this option is the right fit for you.

Am I Eligible for Medical Abortion?

To determine your eligibility for a medical abortion, schedule a confidential consultation with a healthcare professional. They’ll review your medical history, conduct an examination, and confirm your pregnancy stage, usually by ultrasound. Typically, medical abortion is an option in early pregnancy – up to 9 weeks.

What’s the Process of Medical Abortion?

The medical abortion process generally involves these steps:

Consultation and Assessment: This confidential meeting is your chance to ask questions and ensure this option aligns with your needs. Your provider will discuss your medical history, explain the process and conduct or arrange an ultrasound examination to confirm your pregnancy and determine its stage.
Taking the Medications: Your healthcare provider will explain how the medications work and provide detailed instructions. The medications may be provided by the clinic or picked up from your local pharmacy. You’ll usually complete the process at home.
Passing the Pregnancy: Cramping and bleeding, usually heavier than a regular period, are normal as your body expels the pregnancy tissue. Your healthcare provider will offer guidance on managing this part of the process.
Follow-Up: Follow up is essential to check the process is complete. Depending on your healthcare provider, you may need to return to the clinic or you may be followed up by phone. Your provider will explain what’s required for follow up at your initial consult.

You can refer to Medical Abortion Services page for more details.

What to Expect: Care and Support

Follow-Up Care: Your healthcare provider will explain the follow up process and what to do if your worried about any symptoms your experiencing.
Pain Management: You’ll receive guidance on managing any potential pain or discomfort. This may include recommendations for over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. You may also be prescribed pain medication.
Emotional Support: This experience can bring on a wide range of emotions. Remember, your feelings are valid. Reach out to your doctor, a counsellor, trusted friends or family, or support groups if you need someone to listen or offer encouragement.

Things to Think About Before Choosing a Medical Abortion

The decision to continue or end a pregnancy is deeply personal. Here are some points to consider as you make this choice:

Your Health: Discuss all aspects of your physical and mental health with your healthcare provider to understand the impact of all your options.
Your Values: Take time to reflect on your values and beliefs about this decision. Remember, if it’s your body, it’s your choice.
Support System: Surround yourself with loved ones you trust and consider seeking professional guidance from counsellors or therapists.
Available Options: Exploring all choices – parenting, adoption, and abortion – allows you to make the most informed and empowered decision.

Side Effects, Possible Risks and Complications

For information on potential side effects, risks, and complications of medical abortion, please refer to this free online resources page provided by MSI Australia.

Where to Find Help

Choosing a healthcare provider with whom you feel safe and comfortable openly discussing this deeply personal decision is crucial. Here are some resources that offer confidential and non-judgmental support:

Your GP

Your local community health centre

Family planning and sexual health clinics

MSI Australia’s qualified Social Workers offer pro-choice, evidence-based and trauma informed c If you want an interpreter or have any cultural needs we can help you. Make a booking here.

Remember:

You have the right to make informed choices about your own body and health. Seek reliable resources when you make the decision to choose what’s best for you. You are not alone in this journey.