- By Ridam Sharma
- Wed, 11 Feb 2026 04:44 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
In recent years, many women have started believing that taking over-the-counter (OTC) abortion pills to end an unwanted pregnancy is a quick, safe, and private solution. Easy online access, misinformation on social media, and fear of stigma can force women to self-medicate without consulting a doctor. However, are abortion pills really safe? The Daily Jagran turned to Dr Pratima Thamke, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Kharghar, Mumbai.
Dr stated, “taking over-the-counter pills to terminate pregnancy without medical guidance can seriously affect a woman’s health and future fertility.” She added, “Understand that abortion pills are not ordinary medicines. They need proper medical assessment, correct timing, and the right dosage. When taken randomly or without supervision, these pills may not work as intended. In some cases, they can lead to incomplete abortion, where pregnancy tissue remains inside the uterus. This can cause symptoms such as heavy bleeding, risking life, severe pain, infection, and even life-threatening complications if not treated on time. “
Unsupervised OTC Abortion Pills (Image Credit: Canva)
A large number of women also tend to mistake prolonged bleeding and pain as “normal” and delay seeking help. So, many patients arrive late at hospitals with severe anaemia, infections, or internal complications that could have been avoided with proper care.
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Impact Of Abortion Pills:
Know about the impact of abortion pills, according to Dr Pratima Thamke, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist:
1. Unsupervised use of abortion pills can raise the chances of hormonal imbalance and irregular menses for over 3-4 months.
Unsupervised OTC Abortion Pills (Image Credit: Canva)
2. Abortion pills should be taken as per the doctor’s suggestion. Excessive bleeding can cause weakness and lead to symptoms such as fatigue and dizziness that will need timely attention.
3. Infections that are seen because of retained tissue can further spread to the uterus and surrounding organs, requiring surgery or prolonged treatment that can stress the woman.
4. Even stress, guilt, and anxiety are common when women go through the process alone without support or guidance.
Unsupervised OTC Abortion Pills (Image Credit: Canva)
The Impact Of Abortion Pills On Future Pregnancies:
1. Repeated or improperly managed abortions can damage the lining of the uterus, increasing the risk of infertility, recurrent miscarriages, or complicated pregnancies.
2. There can be chances of infections that can also cause scarring in the uterus or fallopian tubes, making it challenging to conceive later in life when the woman is ready. Some women may also face a higher risk of ectopic pregnancy, which is a serious medical emergency.
Lastly, the gynaecologist warned, “Safe abortion, when done under medical supervision, will not be risky. Follow-up with the doctor is important to confirm that the abortion is complete and the woman’s body is recovering well. “ Opting for OTC pills casually without the expert’s help to abort a pregnancy may be a convenient option, but it is not at all advisable. Seeking timely help from an expert ensures safety and protects future fertility.