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An abortion procedure using a suction method
The pregnancy is removed vaginally by an experienced doctor using a suction method.
We offer surgical abortions up to 23 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy. The type of surgical abortion procedure we offer you will depend on how many weeks you have been pregnant and your medical history.
Ask your GP about surgical abortion.
Or call us any time to discuss your options with one of our nurses
0345 300 8090
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A surgical abortion involves the pregnancy being removed through the vagina using a suction method.
We offer surgical abortion as a day treatment in our clinics. The procedure for a surgical abortion can differ depending on your gestation (how many weeks pregnant you are), and so the amount of time you will spend in the clinic will be different too.
We can offer the procedure with or without an anaesthetic. We’ll discuss your choice with you at your consultation, and talk to you about pain relief we can give to make things more comfortable.
When you arrive at one of our clinics, you'll have a consultation (if you've not already had a phone consultation) and medical assessment with one of our specialist nurses.
Surgical abortion procedures differ at different gestations (how many weeks pregnant you are). They’ll talk you through the procedure and answer any questions you have.
After 1-2h of cervix preparation, the pregnancy is removed from the womb by vacuum aspiration (this involves a suction method) through the cervix (neck of womb) and vagina. This is done under sedation or general anaesthetic. If you are under 12 weeks pregnant, it may be possible to have a local anaesthetic. This can be discussed during your appointment to see if it is possible.
This is a very quick and simple 5-10 minute procedure.
After 2-4 hours of cervix preparation, slender specialised instruments are used to remove the pregnancy. This procedure is called dilatation and evacuation (D&E). This procedure is done under general anaesthetic.
The procedure takes 10-15minutes, but you will be in the centre for half a day.
At this gestation range, the treatment is performed in two separate stages over 2 days. On day 1, your cervix will be prepared by inserting narrow expanders that gradually expand overnight. This is a simple and quick procedure that takes 5-10 minutes and you will be awake.
On day 2, you will return to the centre for the surgical procedure under general anaesthetic. The pregnancy is removed through the cervix and vagina using slender specialised instruments and suction. This procedure is called dilatation and evacuation (D&E).
The procedure takes about 10-20 minutes.
After your treatment, you'll spend some time in our recovery lounge having some light refreshments until you’re ready to go home.
Most people will experience some bleeding and cramping afterwards. Bleeding can last for 1-2 weeks and will be similar to a heavy period. Cramping pains are also normal following the procedure, as the womb returns to its normal size. We will advise you about appropriate pain relief to take, and when to seek further advice if necessary.
Abortion aftercareYou'll find answers to the questions people ask most about surgical abortion here. If you can't find out the information you need, please call us on 0345 300 8090.
Our surgical abortion aftercare booklet will give you all the aftercare information and advice you need after your abortion. You can download it here.
