Search Menu
Q and A frontpage

Question

Can you have an abortion if you’re on ARVs?

I’m positive and pregnant. I want to have an abortion, will be being on ARVs be an issue?

Answer

Thanks for getting in touch.

Yes you can have an abortion if you’re on ARVs. This isn’t an issue.

14 comments

  1. Christina Antoniadi

    Hello Nonyameko and thanks for getting in touch.

    I am very sorry to hear you are in this difficult situation.

    I would suggest having a conversation with someone in your clinic or in a family planning clinic.

    This is not my area of expertise but in my understanding you are quite advanced in your pregnancy so an abortion might not be a safe option for you and cannot happen with medication.

    It is best to discuss this with a doctor or a nurse specialising in this area.

    The most important thing is to ensure you are safe.

    Does your decision have to do with your HIV status?
    I am only asking because taking ARVs can ensure you will have an HIV-free baby

    Would you like to discuss more the reasons for your decision?
    Please email us here: questions@i-base.org.uk

  2. Nonyameko

    I’m 7months pregnant I want to do abortion and I’m Hiv positive.can it be successful and what medication can help me for this abortion

  3. Christina Antoniadi

    Hello Nontsikelelo and thank you for the question.

    I am not sure what pills you are taking and what you mean when you say they do not work.

    Depending on what ARVs you are on, emergency contraception pills might need adjustments.

    A pharmacist can advise on the right dose for it.

    The copper coil is also used for emergency contraception and it is more effective, and also it doesn’t interact with any ARVs.

    Please consider having a discussion with a family planning nurse before deciding what the right action might be for you.

    Here you can see some more information: https://i-base.info/qa/25525

  4. Nontsikelelo

    I used the pills twice but it doesn’t work, I’m 18 weeks and I take ARVs, what makes not working

Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *