Surgical abortion, also known as suction aspiration abortion, can be performed in a one-day procedure if less than 14 weeks have passed since the first day of your last menstrual period. Abortion procedures are performed on-site in our brand new NYS Department of Health approved ambulatory surgical facility. In our state of the art facility our team carefully administers IV sedation so NO PAIN is experienced. Procedures can differ depending on length of pregnancy and personal circumstances.
What to expect during your visit:
Though surgical abortions only take several minutes to complete, patients should expect a stay of 3-5 hours to allow time for paperwork, lab work, ultrasound, and a counseling session (before your abortion), and a post surgical recovery period (after your abortion). Those opting for twilight or general anesthesia should have a ride home. Depending upon a woman’s needs and/or medical history, other pre or post procedure medications may be administered.
During your surgical abortion:
You will first lay on an exam table like you would for a regular gynecological exam. Most patients will then receive IV sedation/twilight anesthesia (or general anesthesia where available) at this time. Patients opting for twilight anesthesia are mildly awake, but should feel no more than slight (if any) discomfort, and usually have little to no memory of the procedure afterwards. Where available, patients opting for general anesthesia will be totally asleep for their abortion. Just as with a pap smear, the doctor will use a speculum to hold the vaginal walls open, and then begin the procedure by using a series of dilation instruments to open the cervix. The pregnancy tissue and contents in the uterus are then removed with a gentle vacuum aspirator. The entire process takes about 5-8 minutes.
After your abortion:
When your surgery is complete, you’ll rest in the recovery room for 30 or more minutes before leaving. The recovery room nurse and staff will offer medications to help with possible cramping, monitor your heart rate & blood pressure, and provide a snack and drink. In addition, you’ll receive your aftercare instructions and medications, including birth control (if you’ve opted to begin taking it). Post-procedure counseling is available if you decide you’d like it. Women may experience bleeding or spotting and cramping for up to a week following the procedure. Most women feel ready to return to work and other daily activities within the next few days. Make sure to take your antibiotics as directed and please do not douche, take a bath or swim for at least a week. Do not have sexual intercourse or insert a tampon for at least 2 weeks after the procedure.
Benefits to choosing surgical abortion:
Most women who choose surgical over medical abortions do so because of timing and effectiveness. Because the anticipation of an abortion can be difficult, many women choose surgical abortions because they are safe, effective, and do not require additional steps at home for completion. With the exception of a required follow-up visit 2-3 weeks later, surgical abortion patients leave our office confidently knowing that they are “done”, and feel ready to return to work or other daily activities within a few days.
What complications may occur?
If you experience any of the following symptoms: Fever over 100 degrees or chills, excessive bleeding (soaking one pad per hour for 3 straight hours) or bad cramping unrelieved by Ibuprofen or Tylenol, or prolonged abdominal pain, please call Professional Brooklyn Gynecological Services to talk to a doctor or a nurse. We highly recommend that you return to our office in 2-3 weeks for a quick follow-up visit.