Abortion Procedures

When facing an unplanned pregnancy you deserve to know all the information regarding any potential medical procedure and be empowered to make the best decision for you and your health. 

Like any other serious medical procedure, abortion should be considered carefully for known side effects, complications and long term implications.

Manual Vacuum Aspiration

This surgical abortion is done early in the pregnancy up until 13 weeks after the woman’s last menstrual period. The cervical muscle is stretched with dilators (metal rods) until the opening is wide enough to allow the abortion instruments to pass into the uterus. A hand held syringe is attached to tubing that is inserted into the uterus and the fetus is suctioned out.

Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)

This surgical procedure is done from 13 weeks from the last menstrual period and above. In this procedure, the doctor opens the cervix with a dilator (a metal rod) or laminaria (thin sticks derived from plants and inserted several hours before the procedure). The doctor inserts tubing into the uterus and connects the tubing to a suction machine. Forceps are used to pull fetal parts out through the cervix. Sometimes the doctor may use a curette, a loop-shaped knife, or suction to remove any remaining tissue or blood clots from the uterus.

Dilation and Evacuation (D&E After Viability)

This procedure is done from 24 weeks after LMP and up, and takes two to three days. Lethal injections may be given to stop the fetal heart. The cervix is softened and dilated for 3 days prior using laminaria and vaginal medication. General anesthesia may be used if available or IV sedation and local anesthetic may be given. Surgical instruments are used to grasp and pull fetal parts out through the open cervix. The fetal skull usually needs to be crushed before removal.

It’s your right

Your health is important.  You deserve to have all the information you need to make the best decision for your body.

Choices understands that and wants you to be empowered to make the best decisions for your body and overall health.

Contact Choices to schedule a complimentary, no pressure ultrasound appointment to determine the gestation and viability of your pregnancy. During that time we can help provide any information and facts you need regarding all your options.

While Choices can provide you with all the necessary information regarding your options we do not provide referrals for or offer termination services.

Locations

Coraopolis

Beaver Valley

Pittsburgh

Mobile Clinic

Choices Pregnancy Services