Over The Counter Medical Abortion Pills And Its Consequences

Abstract

Background: Medical abortion is a safe method of termination of pregnancy when used as per given guidelines and under medical supervision. But self administration of Over the counter MTP pills is becoming a public health hazard. Aim: To study the complications and consequences of unsupervised self-administration of medical abortion pills. Materials And Methods: Retrospective observational study done in B.J. Medical College and Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad from February 2018 to August 2019. 150 patients meeting inclusion criteria were included. Case sheets were analysed to obtain data regarding self administration of MTP pills and complications secondary to its administration. Results: In our study, pill misuse was more widespread among low socioeconomic strata women(66%) owing to their ignorance and unawareness. Most of the women were of age group 20-30yrs(70%). As in table 1, More than three-fourth of the women, (78%) were gravid 2 or more. As in table 2, Most of the women(73%) in our study were either uneducated or had a formal education only of primary or secondary level. Most of them constitute housewives(77%). Most of the women(88%) in our study belonged to urban area. As per table 3, Most common presentation on admission was bleeding per vagina(80%). Anemia of varying degree, noted in 66% patients. 28% patients have severe anemia requiring blood transfusion as in table 4. As per table 5,there were 9% cases of shock. In our study, 3% women presented with features of sepsis like fever, pain abdomen etc. 1 patient in our study died due to hemorrhagic shock after heavy bleeding due to MTP pill intake. As per table 6, Majority(78%)of the patients procured the pill after advice from non- allopath doctor, relatives, quacks and chemist. Conclusion: The use of MTP pills without proper knowledge and supervision of a medical practitioner is extremely dangerous for women and may result in severe morbidity and lethal complications. [Kapadia S Natl J Integr Res Med, 2020; 11(1):41-44]