Surgical Abortion

What is a surgical abortion?

Surgical abortions involve the use of a mechanical device (suction or vacuum aspirator) or surgical instruments (forceps, sharp curette and cervical dilator). Surgical abortions are performed on babies at any stage of their human development (1st through 3rd trimesters). The specific technique selected depends upon the baby’s gestational age. Although the baby and the pregnancy are destroyed, major maternal complications occur in about 1% of 1st trimester abortions. The risk of major complications is higher in 2nd and 3rd trimester abortions. Because this is a surgical procedure, proper blood tests must be performed and informed consent must be given. Although we do not provide or refer for abortion, we are committed to providing our clients with everything they need to make an informed decision.

How Much Does It Cost?

The charges for surgical abortions vary. The prices depend upon:

  • the trimester in which the abortion is performed
  • the high risk nature of the pregnancy
  • whether the procedure is performed in an outpatient (clinic) or inpatient (hospital) setting

Generally, the abortion is more expensive when:

  • the pregnancy is further along (late 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimesters)
  • there are maternal medical complications
  • it is performed during hospitalization

Are there possible Complications or Side Effects to Surgical Abortions?

During surgical abortions, the doctor cannot see inside the uterus. He or she may use an instrument to evaluate the depth of the uterus. Also, the risk of major complications is higher in 2nd trimester abortions than in 1st trimester abortions. Complications may include:

  • Infection: Retained pregnancy components or an undiagnosed STD, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, may cause an infection requiring outpatient treatment, or hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics. If pregnancy components are retained, the woman will need another curettage procedure.
  • Persistent or excessive bleeding: Abnormal bleeding may result from uterine muscles not contracting or blood vessels not constricting to stop the bleeding. Also, blood clots may develop inside the uterus after the procedure. The woman will need medication to stop the bleeding.
  • The uterus and/or intestine may have been perforated (a hole punched through the wall by instruments inserted within the uterus). The walls of the uterus are much thinner in 2nd trimester. On occasion, the hemorrhaging is severe enough to require a blood transfusion and abdominal surgery.
  • The cervix may be lacerated (cut or torn) requiring suture repair in order to stop significant bleeding.
  • Cervical Incompetence: A woman may not be able to carry a future pregnancy to term as a result of injuries to the cervix during a 2nd trimester abortion.

Possible Psychological Side Effects of Abortion

Some women have found that months or even years later, they experience unpleasant feelings about their abortion(s). Thousands of women experience many of the following symptoms:

  • Sense of loss or mourning
  • Depression
  • Regret or remorse
  • Loss of interest in sex
  • Anger, rage at self
  • Guilt
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Nightmares
  • Lower self-esteem
  • Strained family relationships
  • Inability to forgive self
  • Over-interest in babies
  • Difficulty being intimate
  • Preoccupation with due date
  • Desire to end relationship
  • Desire to replace aborted baby with a new pregnancy
  • Emotional numbness
  • Anger at those connected with abortion
  • Avoid situations with pregnant women and/or babies

 

The information presented on this website is intended for general education purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.