Overview
Abortion is a medical procedure that terminates a pregnancy and can be performed using medical (medication) or surgical methods. It is a common reproductive healthcare service that allows individuals to exercise autonomy over their reproductive choices.
In Korea, abortions are performed in licensed hospitals and clinics by trained obstetricians and gynecologists, following strict medical standards. Patients receive counseling, careful monitoring, and follow-up care to ensure physical and emotional well-being.
What is Abortion?
Abortion involves ending a pregnancy before the fetus is viable outside the womb. The method depends on gestational age, health status, and patient preference.
Types of Abortion:
- Medical Abortion:
- Uses medications such as mifepristone and misoprostol
- Typically performed within the first 7–10 weeks of pregnancy
- The medications induce uterine contractions, causing the body to expel pregnancy tissue
- Can be completed at home under medical supervision
- Surgical Abortion:
- Involves procedures like vacuum aspiration, dilation and curettage (D&C), or dilation and evacuation (D&E)
- Performed in hospitals or clinics under anesthesia
- Recommended for later-term pregnancies or when medical abortion is not suitable
- Involves direct removal of pregnancy tissue from the uterus
Key points:
- Legal, safe, and confidential when performed in licensed medical facilities
- Choice of method depends on gestational age, health, and personal preference
- Requires professional counseling and follow-up
What are the benefits?
- Safe termination of pregnancy under medical supervision
- Reduces health risks associated with unsafe abortions
- Respects patient autonomy and choice
- ✅ Allows for early intervention, minimizing physical and emotional risks
- ✅ In Korea, procedures are highly regulated and safe
- ✅ Enables family planning and reproductive health management
Procedure Details
1) How should I prepare for Abortion?
- ➤ Confirm pregnancy with a licensed healthcare provider
- ➤ Medical history review and discussion of medications or allergies
- ➤ Fasting instructions if surgical abortion is planned
- ➤ Pre-procedure counseling on procedure type, risks, post-op care, and emotional support
- ➤ Arrange transportation and support for recovery
2) What happens during the procedure Abortion?
Medical Abortion:
- ✅ Take prescribed mifepristone followed by misoprostol
- ✅ Cramping and bleeding occur as the uterus expels pregnancy tissue
- ✅ Follow-up with ultrasound or doctor visit to ensure the abortion is complete
Surgical Abortion:
- ✅ Performed under local or general anesthesia
- ✅ Cervix is dilated, and pregnancy tissue is removed using suction or surgical instruments
- ✅ Procedure typically lasts 10–30 minutes, depending on gestational age
- ✅ Post-procedure monitoring for vital signs, bleeding, and recovery
3) What happens after an Abortion?
- ➤ Rest and avoid strenuous activity for several days
- ➤ Pain management and antibiotics if prescribed
- ➤ Bleeding and cramping are common for a few days
- ➤ Follow-up visit ensures complete abortion and checks recovery
- ➤ Counseling on contraception and emotional support
Risks / Benefits
Potential Risks:
- ➤ Heavy bleeding
- ➤ Infection
- ➤ Incomplete abortion requiring further treatment
- ➤ Rare complications: uterine or organ injury
- ➤ Emotional or psychological stress
Benefits:
- ✅ Safe when performed by licensed providers
- ✅ Minimally invasive options available
- ✅ Allows control over reproductive choices
- ✅ Reduces health risks from unsafe abortions
- ✅ In Korea, procedures are highly regulated with strict safety standards
Recovery and Outlook
- Hospital stay: Often outpatient for medical or early surgical abortion; later-term procedures may require overnight stay
- Activity: Light activity is recommended; avoid heavy lifting
- Bleeding: Usually lasts a few days to two weeks
- Follow-up: Confirm completion via ultrasound or examination
- Emotional support: Counseling and support groups are recommended
- Fertility: Typically returns quickly after abortion, and future pregnancies are possible
When To Call the Doctor
- ➤ Excessive bleeding (soaking multiple pads per hour)
- ➤ Severe abdominal pain not relieved by medication
- ➤ Fever, chills, or signs of infection
- ➤ Foul-smelling discharge
- ➤ Emotional distress needing professional help
Best Korea Option / Process
- ✅ Licensed hospitals and clinics with trained gynecologists
- ✅ Procedures follow strict medical protocols and confidentiality standards
- ✅ Comprehensive care includes pre-procedure counseling, skilled surgical or medical management, and post-procedure follow-up
- ✅ International patients receive VIP services, English-speaking staff, and coordinated care
- ✅ Modern techniques ensure minimal complications and high patient safety
