Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) 🩺
Medical termination of pregnancy means ending a pregnancy on purpose before full term :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}. About 45–50 million such procedures happen worldwide every year—roughly one-fifth of all pregnancies! :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Why choose MTP? 🤔
- Unplanned pregnancy after unprotected sex or failed contraception
- Pregnancy resulting from sexual assault
- Situations where continuing the pregnancy could harm or even endanger the mother, the baby, or both
These reasons make MTP an important, sometimes lifesaving, option :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
When is it safest? ⏰
- First trimester (up to 12 weeks): procedures are generally safe ✅ :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Second trimester (13–24 weeks): risk rises, so extra medical care is essential ⚠️ :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Indian Legal Framework ⚖️
- India first legalised MTP in 1971, adding strict safeguards to prevent misuse, especially sex-selective abortions 🚺 :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- The MTP (Amendment) Act 2017 aims to cut unsafe, illegal abortions and reduce maternal deaths :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Key rules under the 2017 amendment 📜
- Up to 12 weeks: one registered medical practitioner (RMP) can approve termination
- 12–24 weeks: two RMPs must agree in good faith
Permitted grounds include:
- Risk to the mother’s life or serious harm to her physical/mental health
- High chance the child would have severe physical or mental abnormalities
All terminations must follow these guidelines to stay legal and safe :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
Current Challenges & Solutions 🔍
- Illegal clinics: Many procedures are still done by untrained “quacks,” raising the danger of complications and fatalities 🚫 :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- Misuse of amniocentesis: Using fetal sex determination to selectively abort girls is illegal and unethical ❌ :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- Counselling & education: Teaching safe sex, promoting responsible contraception, and ensuring access to qualified healthcare can reverse these unhealthy trends 🌱 :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Quick Recap for NEET 💡
- Definition & global incidence of MTP
- Legal milestones: MTP Act 1971 and Amendment 2017 (12- and 24-week rules)
- Safety window: first vs. second trimester risk differences
- Approved grounds for termination (maternal risk, fetal abnormalities)
- Dangers of illegal abortions and sex-selective practices
Stay informed, stay safe, and always seek qualified medical help! 🌟
