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Abortion procedure

Abortion - surgical

Definition

A surgical abortion is a procedure that ends a pregnancy by removing the fetus and placenta from the mother's womb (uterus).

There are different types of surgical abortion.

Sometimes the woman needs the procedure for a health reason. This is called a therapeutic abortion.

Other times, she chooses (elects) to end the pregnancy. This is called an elective abortion.

See also:

Alternative Names

Suction curettage; Surgical abortion; Elective abortion - surgical; Therapeutic abortion - surgical

Description

A surgical abortion uses a vacuum to remove the fetus and related material from a woman's uterus (womb). The procedure is usually done after 6 weeks of the woman's last menstrual period

You may receive medicine (sedative) to help you relax and feel sleepy. The doctor may numb the cervix so you feel little pain during the procedure.

If the surgical abortion is done after 12 weeks of pregnancy, the doctor must first open (dilate) the cervical canal. Small sticks called laminaria are placed into the cervix to help it open. Sometimes, this is done a day or two before the actual abortion procedure. Next, the doctor inserts a hollow tube into the womb before using the vacuum to remove the pregnancy-related tissues from the womb.

Medicines may be given to help the uterine muscles contract. This reduces bleeding.

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Abortion: When Denial is Not the Best Choice in Teen Health 411 - 1 year 223 days ago
A medical abortion is done with medicine (mifepristone or RU486) that end the pregnancy and a second medicine (misoprostol) causes the uterus to empty. Email  |  Save
Abortion Pills and Safety in Teen Health 411 - 207 days ago
Contradicting the messages from abortion opponents saying that medical abortions are not safe, this data will support the safety of this procedure, done ea... Email  |  Save
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You didn't mention how old you are or if you have any medical problems that have developed since you had your children. Regardless, it is highly likely the... Email  |  Save

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