Types of Surgical Abortion. It is a procedure to end a pregnancy by removing the fetus and placenta from the mother’s uterus (womb).
Summary
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- 1 Description
- 2 Types of surgical abortion
- 3 Why the Procedure Is Performed
- 4 Risks
- 1 Risks of anesthesia
- 2 Risks of surgery
- 5 After the procedure
- 6 Forecast
- 7 Alternative names
- 8 Source
Description
In a surgical abortion, an obstetrical vacuum is used to remove the fetus and related material from the mother’s uterus (womb). The procedure is usually done 6 weeks after a woman’s last menstrual period. You may be given a medicine (sedative) to help you relax and feel sleepy. the doctorcan numb the cervix so you feel little pain during the procedure. If the surgical abortion is performed after 12 weeks of pregnancy, the doctor first has to open or dilate the cervical canal. Small stems, called laminaria, are placed inside the cervix to help it open. Sometimes this is done a day or two before the actual abortion procedure. The doctor then places a hollow tube into the uterus before using the vacuum to remove pregnancy -related tissue from the uterus . Medications may be given to help the uterine muscles contract, which reduces bleeding.
Types of surgical abortion.
Sometimes a woman needs the procedure for health reasons, which is called a therapeutic abortion. Other times, she decides (chooses) to end the pregnancy , which is called an induced abortion.
There are different types of surgical abortion procedures that can be performed depending on the gestational age of the pregnancy. Here are the most common types:
- Vacuum Aspiration (also known as Suction Aspiration): This is the most common type of surgical abortion performed during the first trimester (up to around 12-14 weeks of pregnancy). The cervix is dilated, and a thin tube connected to a suction device is inserted into the uterus to remove the pregnancy tissue.
- Dilation and Curettage (D&C): This procedure may be performed in the first trimester or early second trimester (up to around 16 weeks of pregnancy). The cervix is dilated, and a surgical instrument called a curette is used to gently scrape the uterine lining, removing the pregnancy tissue.
- Dilation and Evacuation (D&E): This procedure is typically performed in the second trimester (from around 13-14 weeks up to around 24 weeks of pregnancy). The cervix is dilated, and a combination of suction and surgical instruments, such as forceps, is used to remove the pregnancy tissue.
It’s important to note that the availability of different abortion procedures may vary depending on local laws, healthcare provider practices, and gestational age limits. It’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized information and guidance regarding abortion options.
Why the Procedure Is Performed
There are several reasons why an abortion might be considered:
- The fetus has a birth defect or genetic problem.
- The pregnancy is detrimental to the woman’s health (therapeutic abortion).
- The pregnancy occurred after a traumatic event such as rape or incest.
- The woman may not want to be pregnant (induced abortion).
The decision to terminate a pregnancy is a very personal one, and most doctors recommend careful counseling before making such a decision. Abortion is a controversial issue. A woman who decides to terminate the pregnancy may feel that she cannot share her decision with others. Therefore, it is important for her to identify those people who can help her during what can be a difficult time. Women trying to make this difficult decision should find a safe place where they can get proper advice regarding all options for pregnancy resolution. If a woman decides to have an abortion, she must find a safe place where she can have this procedure and get the appropriate medical support and follow-up afterward.
risks
The risks of surgical abortion include:
- Damage to the uterus or cervix.
- Emotional or psychological suffering.
- excessive bleeding
- Infection of the uterus or fallopian tubes.
The risks of a surgical abortion increase as a woman progresses through her pregnancy . For this reason, it is important to make a decision about abortion as early as possible, when the procedure is safest.
Anesthesia risks
- Drug reactions.
- Respiratory problems.
Surgery risks
Call your doctor if you have had a surgical abortion and have:
- Excessive vaginal bleeding (can lead to shock ).
- Ongoing pain or pregnancy symptoms (possible sign of ectopic pregnancy ).
- Signs of infection, including persistent fever , vaginal discharge with a foul odor, vaginal discharge that looks like pus, or abdominal pain or tenderness.
after the procedure
Complications rarely occur. Most women who have a surgical abortion performed in an appropriate medical facility recover without any physical complications. Some women may need psychological and emotional support at the time of the procedure. It may help to seek advice before making this difficult decision.
Forecast
Physical recovery usually occurs in a few days, depending on the stage of the pregnancy. For a few days, a small amount of vaginal bleeding, as well as mild uterine cramping, can be expected. Hot baths, using a heating pad, or using a hot water bottle on your abdomen can help relieve discomfort. Strenuous activity should be avoided for a few days after the abortion, and tampons can be used after 3 days. Also, sexual intercourse should be avoided for 2 to 3 weeks. The normal menstrual period should occur 4 to 6 weeks after the operation.
It is important to start using birth control immediately after the abortion procedure, since it is possible to become pregnant again even before having a normal menstrual period. Improved methods of contraception can help prevent many unplanned pregnancies. However, unintended pregnancies occur even when couples use birth control.
Alternative names
Suction curettage; Surgical abortion; Abortion; Surgical therapeutic abortion.
