Six Things You Need To Know Before A Suction Aspiration Abortion

One of the most common types of surgical abortion is a suction aspiration abortion. These abortions are typically less invasive and involved than another type of surgical abortion known as dilation and evacuation. 

If you're considering having a pregnancy terminated, there are a few things you should know about suction aspiration abortions before you decide to undergo the procedure. The following are six things you should be aware of regarding this type of abortion:

These surgical abortions can only be performed in the first trimester.

Your eligibility for a suction aspiration abortion will depend on how far along you are in your pregnancy.

This procedure can only be performed on pregnant women who are in the early part of their first trimester. It is performed on women who have been pregnant for less than 12 weeks. 

These surgical abortions can be done in a doctor's office or clinic.

A surgical abortion can be performed by a clinician or a gynecologist. It is a fairly minor outpatient surgery that can be performed in a doctor's office without requiring an overnight stay.

The suction aspiration procedure is very safe and rarely entails any side effects or health risks. However, patients do often experience cramping and bleeding in the days following the procedure. 

These surgical abortions typically entail the use of local anesthesia.

The patient usually remains conscious throughout the procedure when suction aspiration abortions are performed. 

While general anesthesia is not usually used to knock the patient out, local anesthesia is generally given to the patient in the cervix to minimize any discomfort.

Patients may be asked to fast before the procedure

It's always a good idea for patients to avoid eating and drinking right before being administered anesthesia. Patients should ask their doctor about any fasting requirements to prepare for the procedure. 

This surgical abortion procedure typically takes only about 15 minutes.

A suction aspiration abortion is a fast procedure. The procedure itself can be expected to take between 15 and 20 minutes.

Although the procedure is fast, patients may need to spend a few hours at the doctor's office or clinic on the day of the procedure to be prepared and examined by the doctor. 

Patients are generally prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection after the procedure.

One of the most important considerations after a surgical abortion is performed is avoiding infection. Usually, the doctor who is handling the procedure will prescribe antibiotics to the patient to prevent infection after the suction aspiration procedure. 

Contact a clinic, like A Center For Reproductive Services-North Park Medical Group, for more help.