🩺 Abortion in Twin Pregnancy and Abortion While Breastfeeding

Understanding Safety, Process, and What to Expect

At Women for Women Kenya, we know that every woman’s journey and circumstance are unique. Some pregnancies may involve twins, while others may occur while a woman is still breastfeeding.
No matter the situation, access to safe and compassionate abortion care ensures every woman can make the choice that’s right for her health, her family, and her future.

👶 Abortion in Twin Pregnancy

A twin pregnancy means two embryos or fetuses are growing at the same time. While the emotional and physical experience may differ slightly from a single pregnancy, the abortion methods used are generally the same.

✅ Safe Methods

  • Medical Abortion (Abortion Pills)

  • Uses two medicines: mifepristone and misoprostol.
  • Works by stopping pregnancy hormones and then causing the uterus to expel the pregnancy tissue.
  • Can be used safely for twin pregnancies, though bleeding and cramping may be heavier.
  • In some cases, an extra dose of misoprostol may be required to ensure the uterus empties completely.
  • Surgical Abortion (Manual Vacuum Aspiration — MVA)

  • Performed by a trained provider.
  • Effective for both single and twin pregnancies, usually completed within 15–30 minutes.
  • Recommended for women who prefer a shorter process or where medication may be less effective.

⚠️ What to Expect in a Twin Pregnancy Abortion

  • Slightly heavier bleeding than in single pregnancies.
  • Longer cramping as the uterus expels more tissue.
  • Higher pregnancy hormone levels, so symptoms like nausea or breast tenderness may persist longer.
  • Follow-up ultrasound is essential to confirm the uterus is empty and recovery is complete.

🚨 When to Seek Medical Attention

  • Very heavy bleeding (soaking 2 or more pads per hour for over 2 hours).
  • Severe abdominal pain not relieved by painkillers.
  • Fever, dizziness, or foul-smelling discharge.
  • No bleeding at all after taking misoprostol (may indicate a failed or ectopic pregnancy).

🤱 Abortion While Breastfeeding

Many women get pregnant again soon after giving birth — even while still breastfeeding.
It’s possible to have a safe abortion while breastfeeding, but there are a few special considerations to protect both mother and baby.

💊 Medical Abortion and Breastfeeding

  • Both mifepristone and misoprostol are considered safe during breastfeeding.
  • Only very small amounts of the medicines pass into breast milk, and studies show no harm to the baby.
  • However, some experts recommend pausing breastfeeding for 3–6 hours after taking misoprostol to minimize exposure.
  • Pumping and discarding milk during this short period can help maintain milk supply.

🏥 Surgical Abortion and Breastfeeding

  • Manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) can also be done safely while breastfeeding.
  • If mild sedation is used, mothers can resume breastfeeding once they are fully awake and alert.
  • No long-term effects on milk production or quality.

💕 After the Procedure

  • Continue taking fluids and eat a balanced diet to help with recovery and maintain milk supply.
  • Take only prescribed painkillers (like ibuprofen or paracetamol). Avoid aspirin, which can affect milk.
  • Rest, and seek emotional support if needed — your well-being matters.

🌷 Our Commitment to Care and Safety

At Women for Women Kenya, we ensure that every woman receives care that is:

  • Safe — guided by evidence and experienced clinicians.
  • Confidential — protecting your privacy at every stage.
  • Compassionate — free of judgment, focused on your well-being.

Whether you are ending a twin pregnancy or are breastfeeding, our team provides professional consultation, ultrasound evaluation, and follow-up to ensure your complete recovery.

💬 Get in Touch

📞 0700 811 528
📧 kenyawomenforwomen@gmail.com
🌐 www.womenforwomenkenya.com
📍 Nairobi, Kenya