- This topic has 9 replies, 1 voice, and was last updated 1 month, 3 weeks ago by
.
- Posts
What is this medication?
MIFEPRISTONE (mi FE pri stone) is used to end an early pregnancy. It works by decreasing levels of the hormone progesterone in the body, which stops the pregnancy from progressing.This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Mifeprex
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:Bleeding disorder
Cannot easily get emergency medical help in the 2 weeks after you take this medication
Cannot return for follow-up appointments in 1 to 2 weeks after you take this medication
Ectopic or tubal pregnancy
Have an intrauterine device (IUD)
It has been more than 70 days (10 weeks) since your last menstrual period began
Low adrenal gland function
Porphyria
Take medications that prevent or treat blood clots
Taking steroids, such as dexamethasone or prednisone
An unusual or allergic reaction to mifepristone, misoprostol, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Breastfeeding
How should I use this medication?
Take this medication by mouth. Take it as directed. You will take this medication along with other medications. Talk to your care team about any questions you have.A special MedGuide will be given to you. Be sure to read this information carefully.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
This does not apply. This medication is not for regular use.What may interact with this medication?
Do not take this medication with any of the following:Certain medications that prevent or treat blood clots, such as enoxaparin, dalteparin, apixaban, dabigatran, or rivaroxaban
Regularly take steroid medications, such as budesonide, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, prednisolone, prednisone, or cortisone
This medication may also interact with the following:Certain antibiotics, such as clarithromycin or erythromycin
Certain antivirals for HIV or hepatitis
Certain medications for fungal infections, such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, or posaconazole
Certain medications for seizures, such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, or phenobarbital
Certain medications that prevent or treat blood clots, such as warfarin
Grapefruit juice
Rifampin
St. John’s wort
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.What should I watch for while using this medication?
For your safety, you must visit your care team as directed after taking this medication. Report any unusual effects to your care team. This medication can cause birth defects. You will need surgery if this medication fails to cause a full loss of pregnancy.After you take this medication, some vaginal bleeding is normal. Heavy bleeding may be a sign that something is wrong. If you soak through 2 thick full-size sanitary pads each hour for 2 hours, get medical help right away.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Heavy vaginal bleeding
High fever
Stomach pain, unusual weakness or fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or fever that lasts longer than expected
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):Chills
Dizziness
Headache
Stomach cramping
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of reach of children and pets.Store at 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
Mifepristone Tablets (Termination of Pregnancy) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
What is this medication?
MIFEPRISTONE (mi FE pri stone) is used to end an early pregnancy. It works by decreasing levels of the hormone progesterone in the body, which stops the pregnancy from progressing.This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Mifeprex
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:Bleeding disorder
Cannot easily get emergency medical help in the 2 weeks after you take this medication
Cannot return for follow-up appointments in 1 to 2 weeks after you take this medication
Ectopic or tubal pregnancy
Have an intrauterine device (IUD)
It has been more than 70 days (10 weeks) since your last menstrual period began
Low adrenal gland function
Porphyria
Take medications that prevent or treat blood clots
Taking steroids, such as dexamethasone or prednisone
An unusual or allergic reaction to mifepristone, misoprostol, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Breastfeeding
How should I use this medication?
Take this medication by mouth. Take it as directed. You will take this medication along with other medications. Talk to your care team about any questions you have.A special MedGuide will be given to you. Be sure to read this information carefully.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
This does not apply. This medication is not for regular use.What may interact with this medication?
Do not take this medication with any of the following:Certain medications that prevent or treat blood clots, such as enoxaparin, dalteparin, apixaban, dabigatran, or rivaroxaban
Regularly take steroid medications, such as budesonide, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, prednisolone, prednisone, or cortisone
This medication may also interact with the following:Certain antibiotics, such as clarithromycin or erythromycin
Certain antivirals for HIV or hepatitis
Certain medications for fungal infections, such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, or posaconazole
Certain medications for seizures, such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, or phenobarbital
Certain medications that prevent or treat blood clots, such as warfarin
Grapefruit juice
Rifampin
St. John’s wort
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.What should I watch for while using this medication?
For your safety, you must visit your care team as directed after taking this medication. Report any unusual effects to your care team. This medication can cause birth defects. You will need surgery if this medication fails to cause a full loss of pregnancy.After you take this medication, some vaginal bleeding is normal. Heavy bleeding may be a sign that something is wrong. If you soak through 2 thick full-size sanitary pads each hour for 2 hours, get medical help right away.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Heavy vaginal bleeding
High fever
Stomach pain, unusual weakness or fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or fever that lasts longer than expected
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):Chills
Dizziness
Headache
Stomach cramping
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of reach of children and pets.Store at 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
How do I have an abortion using only misoprostol in Dubai, UAE?
There are two different ways to have a medication abortion:Using 2 different medicines to end your pregnancy: mifepristone and misoprostol.
Using only misoprostol to end your pregnancy.
This page talks about having an abortion using only misoprostol — it’s safe, effective, and legal to use in states where abortion is legal. It works 85-95% of the time and can be used up to 11 weeks from the first day of your last period.Thinking about getting the abortion pill?
Find a Health Center
What happens during a medication abortion using only misoprostol?
At Planned Parenthood, before you take misoprostol, you’ll meet with a nurse or doctor — either in person at the health center, or by video or phone — to go over how to take the pills. Your doctor or nurse will give you detailed directions about when and how to take the pills.You will take 3-4 doses of misoprostol (800 micrograms (µg) each dose). Misoprostol causes cramping and bleeding that empties your uterus. The pregnancy tissue will come out through your vagina — it’s like having an early miscarriage or a really heavy period.
How do I take the misoprostol pills?
30 minutes before you take your first dose of misoprostol:Take pain medicine to help with cramps. Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) works the best, but you can take a different pain medicine like acetaminophen (Tylenol) if you need to. But don’t take aspirin because it can make you bleed more.
Take medicine for nausea if you have it.
There are a few different ways to take misoprostol. You can put the pills in your vagina (vaginal), under your tongue (sublingual), or in your mouth between your cheeks and gums (buccal). They will slowly dissolve (break down), and your body will absorb the medicine through the skin in your vagina or mouth. Don’t just swallow the pills — this will make them not work as well, and will probably make you feel very nauseous.Your doctor or nurse will talk you through the best way for you to take the pills given your situation. Here are the steps for each method:
Vaginal
Wash your hands.
Put 4 pills (800 micrograms (µg) total) deep into your vagina, as far as they will go. Put in 1 pill at a time. Then lay down for 30 minutes so they don’t fall out.
3 hours later do the same thing with 4 more pills.
3 hours after that, do the same thing again with 4 more pills.
You’ll use a total of 12 pills.
Pieces of the pills may fall out of your vagina later. If it’s been more than 30 minutes since you put that dose of pills in your vagina, your body probably absorbed enough of the medicine so you don’t need to put them back in.Sublingual
Put 4 pills (800 micrograms (µg) total) under your tongue and leave them there for 30 minutes.
If there are still pieces of the pills left after 30 minutes, swallow them with some water.
3 hours later do the same thing with 4 more pills.
3 hours after that, do the same thing again with 4 more pills.
You’ll use a total of 12 pills.
BuccalTuck 2 pills between your cheek and your gum on one side of your mouth. Do the same thing with 2 more pills on the other side of your mouth (800 micrograms (µg) of misoprostol total). Leave them there for 30 minutes.
If there are still pieces of the pills left, swallow them with some water.
3 hours later do the same thing with 4 pills.
3 hours after that, do the same thing again with 4 more pills.
You’ll use a total of 12 pills.
Some people may need to take more misoprostol. If your doctor or nurse told you that you need another dose, take 4 more pills (800 micrograms (µg) total) 3 hours later.It’s best to keep taking the pills the same way for each dose. But if that’s not really possible because you’re bleeding too much, or feel too nauseous, you can switch to a different way of taking them.
What happens after I take the misoprostol pills?
Misoprostol causes strong cramping and bleeding in your uterus that makes the pregnancy come out through your vagina — similar to a heavy period or early miscarriage.You should expect cramping and bleeding to start within an hour after you take the second dose, but sometimes it can take until shortly after the third dose or longer.
It’s normal to see large blood clots (up to the size of a lemon) or clumps of tissue during the abortion. But the pregnancy itself is very small — at 8 weeks, an embryo is about ¼ to ½ inch long. You may not see it when it comes out, especially if you’re less than 8 weeks pregnant.
The cramping and bleeding can last for several hours. It’s heaviest when the pregnancy comes out, and it will start to slow down after that. Most people finish passing the pregnancy tissue in 4-5 hours, but it may take longer. You may have cramping on and off for 1 or 2 more days.
If you don’t have any bleeding within 24 hours after taking the last dose of misoprostol, call your nurse or doctor.
It’s common to have side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and sometimes vomiting from the misoprostol. Anti-nausea medicine can help with this.
Abortion Pill in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Kjaimah, Fujairah Access by Mail
Abortion Pill Access by Mail
Women on Web provides safe abortion pill access by mail to the world. Request Mifepristone and Misoprostol abortion pills online.Order abortion pills online
Women on Web has helped over 100,000 people order abortion pills online. The abortion pill is safe, effective, and delivered to your home by mail.I had an abortion
Every unique abortion story that is shared empowers women and pregnant people around the world to exercise their sexual and reproductive rights.Latest updates Explore all
ABORTION PILLS ARE UNSTOPPABLE: Women on Web Impact and Activism in 2024🗽Women on Web USA is open
Women on Web’s online abortion service is now available in the US, providing…Free Abortion Care and Therapy for Ukrainians
Donate to support Ukranian refugees access abortion care and therapyStanding in solidarity with the women and people of South Korea as the government denies sexual and reproductive health rights
Press ReleaseGroups call for action to address South Korea’s unmet commitment to abortion rights
Petition to unblock Women on Web websitesAnti-abortion groups in family planning clinics: Women on Web prepares for an increase of help requests from Italy
Women on Web, a non-governmental organization that has supported over 120,000…Women on Web supports the legalization of abortion in Germany and calls for improved access to abortion services
The consistent demand for support that Women on Web receives from Germany…Abortion Framing Toolkit
Introducing the Abortion Framing Toolkit – your go-to-guide for crafting…Closing the Gap: introducing a more equitable pay scale
This spring Women on Web introduced a new global compensation framework and pay…Women’s reproductive and sexual healthcare in Dubai, UAE
Abortion clinic, abortion pills in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah
Women’s reproductive and sexual healthcare
Find digital services for women for their reproductive and sexual healthcare. Read about the UAE’s provisions on medical assistance for reproduction and find information relating to maternity and paediatric care.Related eServicesMaternity and paediatric careThe UAE’s provisions on medical assistance for reproductionAbortion
Related eServices
Check these reproductive healthcare eServices from Emirates Health ServicesPre-pregnancy care
Antenatal care
Postnatal care
Breastfeeding counselling.
Maternity and paediatric care
Expectant mothers need to open a file for themselves at a maternity hospital. To ensure a smooth access to maternity services, please open the file before the seventh month of pregnancy. The following documents are needed to open a file:Passports of both parents
Marriage certificate; attested and translated if not in Arabic
Residence visas of both expectant parents
Emirates ID of both expectant parents
Insurance card
Family book (for UAE nationals)
The child can be delivered in either a government or a private hospital. The cost of delivery at a public or private hospital depends on a number of factors such as:extent of coverage provided by the insurance (if applicable)
grade of package chosen (economy, luxury etc.)
services chosen in the package (type of room etc.)
type of delivery (normal or a caesarean; the latter being about twice as expensive)
other essential medical treatments as per individual case.
The baby will carry the citizenship of the father.You can look for maternity and pediatric healthcare facilities on the websites of:
Medical facility engine – EHS
Find a medical facility in Abu Dhabi – Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (Seha)
Find a medical facility in Abu Dhabi -Tamm
DHA medical facilities – Dubai Health Authority
RAK health directory – Ras Al Khaimah Government portal
The UAE’s provisions on medical assistance for reproduction
The UAE’s Federal Law No. 7 for the year 2019 Concerning Medically Assisted Reproduction governs the use of the Medically Assisted Reproduction Techniques (ART) by licensed medical facilities in the UAE. It abolishes the Federal Law No. 11 of 2008 Concerning Licensing of Fertilisation Centers in the State. According to the 2019 law, ART are determined by a decision of Ministry of Health and Prevention and these techniques may not be used in places other than medical centres licensed for this purpose.Terms and conditions
The above law lays down terms and conditions for applying the Techniques of Medically Assisted Reproduction. They are as follows:
The technique must be most appropriate medically for the patient
It may be applied after establishing that pregnancy cannot happen by natural means for a period of not less than a year
It may be implemented after a specialist physician issues a certificate stating that there is no danger to the life of the woman or her foetus or a serious harm to their health from the procedure
It may be implemented after a written consent from the man to accept the use of the technique
It may be implemented after providing the man a detailed explanation of the technique, its financial cost and the realistic rate of the woman getting pregnant in similar cases at the facility.
Read more terms and conditions mentioned in Article 8 of the law.Prohibited practices
The law prohibits the use of ART in the following ways:
Performing fertilisation using the sperm of a man and the ovum of a woman other than his wife, and then implanting the fertilised ovum into his wife’s uterus
Performing fertilisation using the ovum of a woman and the sperm of a man other than her husband, and then implanting the fertilised ovum into her uterus
Performing external fertilisation using the sperm of a man and the ovum of his wife, and then implanting the fertilised ovum into the uterus of another woman
Performing external fertilisation using the sperm of a man and the ovum of a woman other than his wife, and then implanting the fertilised ovum into the uterus of another woman
Performing external fertilisation using the sperm of a man and the ovum of his wife, and then implanting the fertilised ovum into the uterus of his other wife/wives.The law also prohibits fertility centres from using unfertilised or fertilised ova or sperm for commercial purposes, or conducting research, or executing genetic modifications of the characteristics of neonates, or disposing of them for the benefit of others.
Practices allowed
The law allows:
fertilisation of as many number of eggs that are sufficient for implantation more than once, according to specific conditions and controls
preservation of frozen fertilised ova and sperm for future reproduction for the benefit of a couple; such preservation will be for a period of five years, subject to extension
keeping unfertilised eggs or frozen sperms for a period of five years, which can be extended for similar periods upon a written request from the parties concerned.For more information on the subject, contact Ministry of Health and Prevention.
Abortion
According to the UAE law, it is a crime to abort a pregnancy unless:it endangers the woman’s life or
there is evidence that the baby will be born with fatal deformities and will not survive.
In the latter case, the foetus must be aborted before it is 120 days old, which is during the 17th week of the pregnancy and one week into the second trimester. The abortion must be approved by an authorised medical board. Abortion of foetus after 120 days of pregnancy is not permitted.What Is The Abortion Pill in Dubai?
The abortion pill in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah is generally two medications. The first medication works by blocking the action of the hormone progesterone, stopping the pregnancy from continuing. The second medication causes the uterus to contract in order to expel the pregnancy.Request Your Appointment
How much does the abortion pill cost?
The abortion pill costs about $300 – $1,000 depending on where you live.Is the abortion pill safe?
According to the WHO (World Health Organization), before deciding to self-manage a medication abortion, there are many factors to consider. The pregnancy needs to be confirmed and the gestational age measured. The WHO also says that medication abortion is not appropriate for everyone, specifically those who have had an ectopic pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory disease, chronic adrenal failure, hemorrhagic disorders, bleeding disorders, porphyries, those who currently have an IUD, or those who are experiencing pelvic pain. If a person has any of these health issues, they should reach out to a medical professional before taking the medicines. A person should also understand how medication abortion works and how to correctly use the medicines involved.Is the abortion pill effective?
There are varying reports on the effectiveness of the abortion pill to terminate a pregnancy. Much of the research indicates that key factors make a difference. These factors include being able to answer the following questions: How far along are you? Do you have an ectopic pregnancy? Does your medical history present any increased risks? Get the answers to your questions by making an appointment today.Do I need to go to a doctor before taking the abortion pill?
Yes and no. Visiting a doctor or health center to acquire the abortion pill is still considered a safer option. It is important to know how far along you are in your pregnancy, understand your medical history, and thoroughly research all of your options. It is also valuable to be connected with a provider, so that if you choose to take the abortion pill, your provider can verify that the abortion was complete and you do not have a need for a D&C (dilation and curettage).You can find abortion pills online. They are not currently regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which poses risks as you consider a medical procedure that has short- and long-term effects. While it seems like a quick and easy option, take a minute to get all of the information. You deserve it to have ALL of the information you need before making your pregnancy choice.
Request an appointment to speak to one of our staff members about all of your questions and concerns.
Request Your Appointment
When can I take the abortion pill?
First, the abortion pill is different than Plan B or the morning after pill. You can take Plan B within 72 hours of having unprotected sex. It works to prevent an embryo from implanting in the uterus. It is about 70% effective, depending on how soon after sex you take it.The abortion pill is something different altogether; it cuts off the blood and nutrient supply to the embryo (or fetus if after 9 weeks). The abortion pill is actually two medications. The first medication works by blocking action of the hormone progesterone, stopping the pregnancy from continuing. The second medication causes the uterus to contract in order to expel the pregnancy. Cramping and bleeding may be severe, and fatal infections have occurred.
The abortion pill can be given up to 10 weeks into the pregnancy, after which point the only abortion option available to you is an in-clinic or surgical abortion.
How can I get the abortion pill?
A physician can prescribe you the abortion pill at an office or clinic. You can also find various websites that allow you to purchase the pill online. Abortion pills acquired online are not currently regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which poses risks as you consider a medical procedure that has short- and long-term effects. While it seems like a quick and easy option, take a minute to get all of the information. You deserve it.What are the abortion pill risks and side effects?
As with any medication, it has risks. The risks most commonly associated with the abortion pill include: incomplete abortion (a surgical abortion would then be required), heavy and prolonged bleeding, infection, fever, and digestive system discomfort. If you have an IUD (intrauterine device) and are pregnant, you should contact your health care provider. You should also know that if you have an ectopic (not in the uterus) pregnancy, taking the abortion pill will not work for you. You should seek medical care immediately as this is a life-threatening emergency.Patient Testimonials
Comfort Care was very helpful with advice and easing my concerns and anxiety I had without needing to mention it. They were very personable, responsive, and patient as they spent a lot of time one-on-one with me. I 100% recommend Comfort Care!
Love this place! Such nice folks work there and helpful with so many things. First everything is free for clients and paid for by donations. I took my pregnancy test there and got plenty of helpful information about pregnancy, my options, and local resources.
ComfortCare was such a wonderful place. After finding out I was pregnant, I was scared since it’s my first time. They answered all of my questions, they gave me booklets and such to read up on that were super informative, and they were some of the kindest people I’ve ever met.
Amazing staff/nurses/doctors! I felt very comfortable and even gained some knowledge while there. Such a safe place to go to! Definitely would recommend them to everyone!
The most wonderful and caring staff that you could trust! Went in not knowing what to do and received wonderful guidance in helping me feel more confident in my choice.Abortion in the United Arab Emirates
Abortion in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is only legal in five instances:[1] if the pregnancy is the result of rape; if the pregnancy is a result of incest; at the request of the couple after the approval of a regulatory committee; if the continuation of the pregnancy puts the woman’s life in danger; if the foetus has a serious congenital disorder.In addition, the abortion must be performed within the first 120 days of pregnancy.[2] The regulatory committee must be composed of an obstetrics and gynaecology specialist, a psychiatry specialist, and a representative from the Public Prosecution according to The Ministry of Health and Prevention.[3] Non-citizen pregnant women must hold a valid UAE residency permit for a minimum of one year. Prior to 2024, the UAE did not permit abortions in cases of rape or incest.[4][5] The legislation change aimed to reduce illegal and unsafe abortions.[6] Since the change, abortion laws within the country have been described as less restrictive than some American states which do not permit abortions in cases of rape or incest, following the overturning of Roe v. Wade.[7]
Legality
Abortion law within the country is based on Sharia law (Islamic law), and was described as restrictive in 2007.[8] Due to an absence of legal framework at the time detailing the cases in which abortions were allowed, very few abortions were carried out legally.[9] Following the issue of the Medical Liability Law signed by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan clarifying the circumstances in which abortions were allowed, the number began to increase, averaging at about 25 abortions per year in Corniche Hospital Abu Dhabi from 2013 to 2015.[9]Since then, substantial progress has been made in broadening the conditions under which abortions are permitted. As of 2019, the UAE is one of three countries in the Middle East and North Africa to extend circumstances in which abortion is allowed.[10] In addition, abortion laws within the country have been described as less restrictive than some American states following the overturning of Roe v. Wade.[7] UAE Federal Penal Code No. 3 of 1987 regulates the provisions of abortion under the “infringement on human life and bodily integrity”.[11]: 6 Abortion is defined as an any act that may lead to the death of a foetus or its exit from the womb before the natural date of birth. Under article 40 of the UAE Penal Code, whoever intentionally aborts may face imprisonment. The law does not punish for the crime of abortion unless it is intentional, so the crime is not committed by someone who accidentally causes a pregnant woman to miscarry, even in grave error. The Penal Code does not address the criminalization of induced abortion resulting in death;[11]: 18–19 but article 87 of the Penal Code states that if multiple crimes are committed, the crime with the most severe penalty must be considered.[11]: 19 In a 2021 case where a man beat his pregnant wife leading to the possibility of losing the foetus, the man was found guilty of assault and was ordered to pay AED 15,000.[12] Such incidents have led to questioning on the possibility of legal loopholes.[11]: 20–21 Assisting in an abortion illegally is a criminal offence punishable of up to seven years in prison.[13]
Although abortions are currently permitted only if the pregnancy is under 120 days, many medical professionals in the country have advocated for a change in the law to allow abortions beyond this period, citing the inability to detect certain deformities before 120 days.[14]
History
Unwanted pregnancies have led to women in the UAE illegally procuring abortions or abandoning babies.[15] A 2011 report by Gulf News found that the illegality and inaccessibility of abortion resulted in women purchasing cheap ulcer medication to end unwanted pregnancies.[16] In an interview with a Filipino expatriate who sold such pills, she stated that demand for the tablets had grown due to social and moral values shifting while laws had not. The report found that such tablets did not guarantee an induced abortion, with failure in 15–20% of cases, and could result in death through bleeding or infection in rare cases. The demand for such pills were attributed to article 356 of the UAE Penal Code enforcing imprisonment and then deportation to mothers of children born out of wedlock.[16] Such abortion pills sold on black markets can cost as much as AED 5000, while the price of such pills in most European countries is only AED 160.[13] There have been several instances of arrests involving illegal abortions.[17][18]In October 2023, a legislation change allowed women to undergo abortions without spousal consent and permitted private licensed clinics to perform the procedure.[19] In June 2024, it was announced that the circumstances in which an abortion could be obtained had extended to include rape and incest.[1]
Understanding the UAE’s New Abortion Law: A Comprehensive Overview
Introduction:The UAE has recently implemented significant legal reforms regarding abortion, reproductive rights, and medical ethics, with the law of Federal Decree-Law No. 4/2016 on Medical Liability and its amendment with Federal Decree-Law No. 18/2023.
These laws outline the circumstances under which abortion is permitted, the procedures to be followed, and Federal Decree-Law No. 31/2021 on the Issuance of the Crimes and Penalties Law outline the penalties for unlawful abortions.
Let’s explore the details of these laws to understand their implications.
Federal Decree-Law No. 4/2016 On Medical Liability:
The recently amended Article 14 emphasises the importance of adhering to established legislation concerning Assisted Reproductive Technology for women and embryo implantation. This provision ensures that such procedures are conducted per existing laws, thereby safeguarding the rights and well-being of individuals involved in reproductive processes.
Article 15 underlines the necessity of informed consent in matters related to reproductive health. It stipulates that any action or intervention aimed at regulating reproduction must be carried out with the explicit consent of the wife and husband involved. Furthermore, any involvement in controlling birth for women is permissible only under specific circumstances unless based on the opinion of a specialised medical committee.
According to the newly amended Article 16, it defines the conditions under which abortion procedures may be conducted. A doctor may not conduct any abortion operation or make a prescription intended to result in abortion, except in the following cases:
1. If the continuation of the pregnancy endangers the life of the pregnant woman.
In case there is no manner other than abortion to save the life of the pregnant woman.
Abortion shall be done at a governmental health facility or a private health facility authorized by the Competent Health Authority.
The physicians involved shall draft a report including justifications to carry out the abortion operation, with the consent of the pregnant woman or her spouse or guardian.
2. If fetal malformation is proven to have occurred.The malformation shall be proven in a medical report issued by a medical committee. The health committee shall carry out all medical examinations and prove the results in the report.
The abortion shall be performed based on the approval of the pregnant woman or her spouse or guardian.
Any other controls determined by the Council of Ministers.
According to Article 33, subject to the provisions of Article (16) of the present Decree-Law, every doctor who engages in the abortion of a pregnant woman deliberately shall be sentenced to imprisonment. Should the abortion lead to the death of the victim, the doctor shall be sentenced to imprisonment for a period of no less than 5 years and no more than 10 years.Federal Decree-Law No. 31/2021 on the Issuance of the Crimes and Penalties Law:
Article 391 of the UAE Penal Code establishes the legal consequences for unlawful abortion practices in the UAE and addresses various scenarios:
Pregnant women who self-abort or consent to abortion may face imprisonment, fines, or both.
Individuals causing abortions with a woman’s consent risk imprisonment or fines. Healthcare professionals performing abortions without legal justification may be imprisoned.
Non-consensual abortion may lead to imprisonment for offenders. Attempted abortion carries penalties equal to half of the completed acts.
Conclusion:By establishing clear guidelines for healthcare providers and individuals, the UAE aims to ensure that abortion practices are conducted responsibly and ethically, with due consideration for the rights and dignity of all parties involved.
Moreover, the imposition of penalties for unlawful abortion practices emphasizes the seriousness with which the UAE addresses violations of reproductive rights and medical ethics.
The Abortion Pill
Where can I get an abortion?
If you’re seeking a medication abortion (AKA abortion pills), your nearest Planned Parenthood health center can help you figure out if abortion pills are an option for you.Other abortion providers, including those that aren’t associated with Planned Parenthood, might be closer to where you live or have availability sooner. Some states allow virtual visits and having your abortion pills sent to you. The websites below offer more info on abortion providers and abortion pills by mail, including relevant legal considerations:
AbortionFinder
INeedAnA
Plan C
In This Section
The Abortion Pill
How does the abortion pill work?
What can I expect after I take the abortion pill?
How do I use the abortion pill?
How do I have an abortion using only misoprostol?
How safe is the abortion pill?
How do I get the abortion pill?
How much does the abortion pill cost?
The Abortion Pill | Planned Parenthood Video
Planned Parenthood YouTube Channel
The Abortion Pill | Planned Parenthood Video“Abortion pill” is the common name for using two different medicines to end a pregnancy: mifepristone and misoprostol.
Watch in ASL
Medication abortion — also called the abortion pill — is a safe and effective way to end an early pregnancy.
What is the abortion pill?
“Abortion pill” is the common name for using two different medicines to end a pregnancy: mifepristone and misoprostol. You can also use misoprostol alone to have an abortion.First, you take a pill called mifepristone. Pregnancy needs a hormone called progesterone to grow normally. Mifepristone blocks your body’s own progesterone, stopping the pregnancy from growing.
Then you take the second medicine, misoprostol, either right away or up to 48 hours later. This medicine causes cramping and bleeding to empty your uterus. It’s kind of like having a really heavy, crampy period, and the process is very similar to an early miscarriage. If you don’t have any bleeding within 24 hours after taking misoprostol, call your nurse or doctor.
Your doctor or nurse may give you both medicines at the health center. In some states you can do a virtual visit and have the pills mailed to you or pick them up at a local pharmacy. Some states have laws that say you must come to the health center for a separate visit before you get the abortion pills.
Your doctor or nurse will give you detailed directions about where, when, and how to take the medicines. And they’ll talk with you about medicines to manage side effects, like cramp pain and nausea.
How effective is the abortion pill?
The abortion pill is very effective. If you’re taking mifepristone and misoprostol, it depends on how far along the pregnancy is, and how many doses of medicine you take:At 8 weeks pregnant or less, it works about 94-98% of the time.
At 8-9 weeks pregnant, it works about 94-96% of the time.
At 9-10 weeks pregnant, it works about 91-93% of the time.
If you take an extra dose of misoprostol, it works about 99% of the time.
At 10-11 weeks pregnant, it works about 87% of the time.
If you take an extra dose of misoprostol, it works about 98% of the time.
In general, taking both mifepristone and misoprostol works a bit better than taking misoprostol only.Taking misoprostol alone works to end the pregnancy about 85-95% of the time — depending on how far along the pregnancy is and how you take the medicine.
The abortion pill usually works, but if it doesn’t, you can take more medicine or have an in-clinic abortion.
When can I take the abortion pill?
In general, you can have a medication abortion up to 77 days (11 weeks) after the first day of your last period. If it’s been 77 days or more since the first day of your last period, you can have an in-clinic abortion to end your pregnancy.Why do people choose the abortion pill?
Which kind of abortion you choose all depends on your personal preference and situation. With medication abortion, some people like that you don’t need to have a procedure in a doctor’s office. You can have your medication abortion on your own schedule, at home or in another comfortable place that you choose. You get to decide who you want to be with during your abortion, or you can go it alone. Because medication abortion is similar to a miscarriage, many people feel like it’s more “natural” and less invasive. And some people may not have an in-clinic abortion provider close by, so abortion pills are more available to them.Your doctor, nurse, or health center staff can help you decide which kind of abortion is best for you.
More questions from patients:
Can the abortion pill be reversed after you have taken it?
What is the RU-486 abortion pill?
What happens if I take the abortion pill after 11 weeks?What is the abortion pill in Dubai?
The abortion pill is in fact two medicines. The first medicine ends the pregnancy and is named mifepristone. It works by blocking the hormone progesterone. Without progesterone, the lining of the uterus breaks down and the pregnancy cannot continue.The second medicine, misoprostol makes the womb contract, causing cramping, bleeding and the loss of the pregnancy similar to a miscarriage.
ABORTION PILLS IN DUBAI, ABU DHABI, SHARJAH, AJMAN, UMM AL QUWAIN, RAS AL KHAIMAH, FUJAIRAH
What to expect depends on whether the pregnancy is less than or more than 10 weeks’ gestation. It will also depend on whether you can have telephone assessment and your pills by post or if you need to come into the clinic.Remote abortion treatment
The abortion pill up to 10 weeks
The government has approved the use of pills by post for abortion treatment. This allows clients to take both pills for a medical abortion up to 10 weeks in their own homes, rather than attending a clinic.Abortion Treatment at Home
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.