Vacuum aspiration

Suction-aspiration abortion is a form of abortion using aspiration. In this method, the clinician (usually a physician) first uses a local anesthetic to numb the cervix. Then the clinician uses instruments called "dilators" to open the cervix. Once that has been accomplished, a sterile canula is inserted into the uterus and this canula is attached via tubing to a suction machine. Once the machine is turned on, a gentle vacuum is created which is applied to the interior of the uterus. This vacuum then aspirates out the uterus and the pregnancy tissue is removed. This pregnancy tissue inculdes the embryo or fetus as well as the decidua, chorionic villi, amniotic fluid, amniotic membrane and other tissue. The clinician may sometimes then utilize a currette to ensure that the uterus is clean. Afterwards, the patient sits up and walks out of the room and into the recovery area where she is observed before returning home. Most abortion providers ask the patient to return in two weeks for a check-up.

Suction Aspiration is the most commonly used method of abortion in the world, especially when performed early in the pregnacy up to about 16 weeks. It is considered to be a non-invasive abortion, as surgery is not involved.

See also