Surgical Abortion (Aspiration Abortion, Dilation & Evacuation Abortion)
A surgical procedure removes the fetus from the uterus through the vagina. The procedure is typically done using suction or an instrument called a curet. Different processes are used depending on the gestational age of your pregnancy. If you are unsure how far along you are, contact us for a free ultrasound to confirm your dates.
The type of surgical abortion you have will depend on how far along you are. Suction abortion (also called vacuum aspiration) is the most common while Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) is another kind of in-clinic abortion procedure often used for pregnancies late in the second trimester.
Here are some steps to a typical surgical abortion:
- Depending on how far along you are, dilators (rods) might be used to open the cervix prior to the abortion.
- You will be on the exam table in the same position used for a pelvic exam, with your feet on stirrups while lying on your back.
- The abortion provider will insert a speculum into the vagina.
- The vagina and cervix will be cleansed with an antiseptic solution.
- A numbing medicine (local anesthetic) will often be injected into the cervix.
- Sometimes other medicines for pain or sedation will be given by mouth or through a vein.
- The abortion provider will grasp the cervix with an instrument to hold the uterus in place.
- Your cervix will then be opened (dilated) with a small instrument.
- A tube (cannula) will be inserted into the cervical canal, and suction will be used to remove the baby and pregnancy tissue from the uterus. During this process, the uteruswill contract which will cause cramping. Some women also may have nausea or sweating or feel faint.
- Sometimes a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure is needed after a vacuum aspiration if all of the tissue has not been removed. D&C uses a sharp surgical instrument to clear tissue from the uterus.
In order to make sure you’re safe here are a few things you can do ahead of time.
- Make sure that you are pregnant. Have you had a pregnancy test yet? If so, have you had an ultrasound? Some women seek abortion unnecessarily before confirming they are pregnant.
- Know how far along you are. Always ask for a doctor or other qualified medical professional (registered nurse or sonographer) for an ultrasound to make sure you’re pregnant and within the 10 weeks the FDA requires. If you’re not sure whether you are pregnant, we offer free pregnancy testing. Not sure where to get an ultrasound? Call us today. We can help.
- Learn about the procedure. Ask the abortion provider what their procedure is for chemical abortion. Our center can offer education about abortion.
- Know your options. Making an abortion decision is not easy, and you do have alternatives. Educating yourself on all options is empowering. Whenever you need us, we can help.
- Know your risks. These procedures do not come without risks, some of which include uterine perforation (a hole in the uterus), future fertility issues (trouble or inability to carry a pregnancy in the future- due to cervical damage or scar tissue on the uterine wall), and severe hemorrhage (bleeding).
- Stay Safe. Seek medical attention after an abortion if you have any of these symptoms:
- Heavybleeding- soaking two or more pads an hour for two hours
- Signs of infection such a headache, muscle aches, dizziness, or a general feeling of illness. Severe infection is possible without fever.
- Severe pain in the abdomen
- Hot flashes or a fever
- Vomiting Lasting more than 4-6 hours
- Suddenabdominal swelling or rapid heart rate.
- Vaginal discharge that has increased in amount or smells bad
- Pain, Swelling, or redness in the genital area
- Bleeding lasting longer than 2 weeks
- New,unexplained symptoms
- Nomenstrual period within 6 weeks
- Signs and symptoms of depression
Next Steps:
If you are thinking about your pregnancy decision, you are not alone. There are many options available to you. At our center, we are here to talk with you about any choices you would like to discuss including abortion, adoption, or parenting. As with any medical procedure, it isimportant to understand what the abortion entails, side effects, possible risks, complications, and alternatives. If you are ready to talk to someone about your situation, contact us and we can provide you with confidential help.
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