What should you know about misoprostol for MTP?

Misoprostol is a prostaglandin medicine. In a medical termination of pregnancy, it helps the uterus contract and the cervix open so pregnancy tissue can pass. The correct regimen depends on pregnancy duration, examination findings, medical history, and the service providing care; a clinician should explain the route, timing, and follow-up.

Bleeding and cramping are expected parts of the process, but nausea, diarrhoea, chills, and fever may also happen. Symptoms should gradually settle after the tissue passes. Follow-up confirms that the process is complete and identifies ongoing pregnancy or another problem.

Use only medicine supplied or prescribed through a qualified service, and follow its instructions exactly. Before treatment, share your last menstrual period if known, prior caesarean or uterine surgery, allergies, medicines, bleeding problems, and any severe pain. Arrange access to a phone, transport, sanitary products, and follow-up.

Do not add doses, combine medicines, or use an unknown tablet because bleeding has not started. Ask what pain relief is suitable and how completion will be checked. Related information is available under [Misoprostol](/materials/misoprostol/) and [Medical Management of Miscarriage](/treatments/medical-gynaecology/medical-management-of-miscarriage/).

Seek urgent medical care for heavy bleeding, fainting, severe or one-sided abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, trouble breathing, confusion, or worsening weakness. Contact the service for fever that persists, foul-smelling discharge, pain that does not improve, or no expected change after the prescribed plan. Do not wait for a routine follow-up when a warning sign appears.

Ask which regimen applies to you, how to manage pain and nausea, how you will know the process is complete, what to do after vomiting a dose, and which number to call day or night.