Abortion

Alternative names:

induced abortion; suction curettage; surgical abortion

Definition:

A surgical procedure to end a pregnancy by removing the fetus and placenta from the uterus.

Description:

A surgical abortion that is performed between 6 and 12 weeks into a pregnancy may be done while the woman is awake. She is given the option of being sedated by medications or having her cervix numbed (local anesthesia) with an injection so that she is basically pain-free.

A surgical abortion for a pregnancy over 12 weeks is usually done while the woman is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia). The cervical canal is enlarged (dilated) and a hollow tube is inserted into the uterus. A vacuum (suction) machine is used to remove the tissues (fetus and placenta) from the uterus. Medicines such as oxytocin are given to cause the uterus muscles to contract and reduce bleeding.

Indications:

• woman's choice to end a pregnancy (elective termination)
• woman's health is endangered by pregnancy