There is lots of information online about terminating an unwanted pregnancy using vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Some people believe that by eating certain foods that contain high levels of vitamin C, it is possible to cause the uterus to contract and expel the fetus. They hold onto the theory that the vitamin C inhibits the production of progesterone which is important for the implantation of the fetus into the uterine lining.However, if it is possible to get medical advice, it is better to have a professional opinion. Inducing a termination of pregnancy yourself can lead to many complications which can have long-term repercussions.
Can I Use Vitamin C for Abortion?
There are no studies or statistics supporting this claim that vitamin C is successful at aborting an unwanted fetus. Even supporters of this method of abortion admit that it is only successful in only 3-4 women out of every 10 women that attempt it. Another caveat is that it can be used only up to the 4th week of pregnancy. Some women claim that the expulsion of the fetus is incomplete, which forces you to seek medical attention to have the remaining tissue removed safely.
Side Effects of Using Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin which gets flushed away by the kidneys into the urine if your intake exceeds the normal requirements. The levels of vitamin C that are believed to induce an abortion are very high (between 6-10 grams daily for about 5-10 days). These high doses can cause many side effects in the body due to its toxicity at high doses, such as:
- Kidney stones
- Diarrhea
- Constipation and abdominal cramps
- Hot flashes, skin rashes, and headaches
- Insomnia
If you have any one of the following underlying medical conditions,strictly avoid vitamin C for abortion:
- Kidney problems like: kidney stones and other kidney diseases
- Sickle-cell anemia
- Taking any anti-coagulants, like Warfarin (to prevent blood from clotting)
Other Ways to Induce Abortion
The abortion method will depend on how far the pregnancy has progressed. Usually after 9 weeks of pregnancy, the only viable option available is a surgical abortion. It is also important to realize the health risks of abortion are higher in the second trimester compared to the first trimester. The earlier on the pregnancy you are in, the better your options and the lower the related risks. The decision to have an abortion is very personal and you may require some professional help dealing with this difficult decision.
Below are several ways of abortion. If you find yourself with an unwanted pregnancy, seek medical attention as soon as possible, no matter which method you choose.
1. Home Remedies
Similar to vitamin C for abortion, there is no scientific research to back up the following natural remedies. So take extra care and see your doctor for advice before taking them.
- Dong Quai
Dong Quai is a plant of which the root is used to make an herbal medicine. It is commonly used to relieve menstrual cramps, menopausal symptoms and premenstrual tension. It is believed to work by interfering with normal estrogen levels in the body.
- Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal contains an abortifacient substance called pulegone. This agent causes moderate to severe contractions, causing abortion.
- Parsley
Parsley can be used as a tea and consumed a few times per day. It can even be inserted directly into the vagina like a tampon.
- Cinnamon
Cinnamon is used as an agent of abortion because it is believed by some that it causes uterine stimulation at the correct dose. It can also reduce the pain of an abortion.
- Unripe Pineapple
Unripe pineapple is believed to bring on a late menstrual period and following this can cause a miscarriage. Pineapple is also said to be able to induce labor.
2. Medical Abortion
Medical abortion is usually performed up to 9 weeks of pregnancy. After tests are completed, a medicine is administered during the visit with another medicine given to be continued at home. Vaginal bleeding occurs and may last about 2 weeks. There will be a follow-up check with the health care practitioner to ensure that the procedure was a success and the woman is recovering well.
3. Surgical Abortion
In the first trimester, a vacuum aspiration is used. It can either be manual or a machine. After the first trimester, vacuum aspiration followed by dilation and curettage (D&C) are used to clear out all the fetal and placental tissue from the uterus.
4. Non-Surgical Abortion
When used in the second trimester, the non-surgical abortion is a combination of medicines that induce uterine contractions to push the fetus out. This is known as an induction abortion and is commonly used when the pregnancy has to be terminated due to fetal abnormalities.
