The termination of a pregnancy is the right of every expectant mother in South Africa. However, many women experience difficulty in getting the appropriate advice on the costs and facilities associated with an abortion. There are many private abortion clinics in South Africa and while government hospitals should also offer this service, the strained public health care system does not always give priority to abortions. Medical aids may cover the cost of an abortion, however, some medical aids limit the number of times the procedure may be conducted or may not cover the procedure at all.
Whether you chose not to use a condom or if the condom burst midway during sex, your chances of contracting a sexually transmitted disease (STD), HIV or falling pregnant is high. This is a cause of much stress for both teens and adults alike and if you want to avoid this experience then always use a condom and remember that two condoms are better than one.
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Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy may occur, particularly in the first trimester, and should always be taken seriously. At times, the bleeding is not due to a serious cause and no intervention may be necessary. However some of the causes of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy can indicate an underlying problem and there may be a risk to you or your unborn child.
A few days after conception, you will notice a little spotting or a light bleed. This is known as the implantation bleed and is normal. However if the bleeding is profuse, persisting or accompanied by significant abdominal pain, then you should consult with your doctor immediately. Women who have missed a period, have the signs and symptoms of pregnancy but have not as yet confirmed it with a test should still be cautious about a vaginal bleed as it could be a miscarriage. Do not assume that the vaginal bleeding is your delayed period.
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After conception, the fertilised egg exits the fallopian tubes and attaches itself to the lining of the uterus where the fetus will grow and develop. In most cases, the attachment or implantation occurs on the endometrium of the uterus and the fetus has enough space to grow as the uterus stretches and expands. However in an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilised egg does not attach to the endometrium of the uterus. Implantation may occur elsewhere, usually in the fallopian tubes (tubal implantation or ‘tubal pregnancy’) and less commonly in the cervix, ovary or abdomen.
The abortion pill should not be confused with the morning after pill as it is intended for use within the first 8 weeks of pregnancy whereas the morning after pill should only be used within 3 to 5 days after intercourse. The abortion pill, mifepristone and misoprostol, is an approved pregnancy termination method in South Africa and can only be prescribed by a medical doctor.
An unwanted pregnancy can be a daunting prospect for many women and teen girls especially without appropriate financial or social support. Fortunately within South Africa, the Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1996 allows an expectant mother to terminate the pregnancy through safe and cost effective abortions. Choosing the correct abortion method is essential in maintaining both your reproductive health and preventing complications or even death.
Maternity benefits included
Pre-existing conditions covered (excl HIV/Aids)