Surgical Abortion
A medical procedure used to terminate a pregnancy by surgically removing the fetus and placenta from the uterus. Surgical abortion procedures may involve vacuum aspiration or dilation and evacuation (D&E), depending on the gestational age of the pregnancy and other clinical factors. These procedures are typically performed in a clinical setting by trained healthcare providers.
Types of Procedures:
- Vacuum Aspiration: Also known as suction aspiration, this procedure involves the use of a suction device to remove the contents of the uterus, including the fetus and placenta.
- Dilation and Evacuation (D&E): This procedure is used for pregnancies beyond the first trimester and involves dilation of the cervix and removal of the pregnancy tissue using forceps and suction.
Online References:
- Mayo Clinic: Provides an overview of surgical abortion procedures, including vacuum aspiration and dilation and evacuation, their indications, effectiveness, and potential risks.
- Abortion Procedures