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First Trimester Abortion

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What is an induced abortion?

When a procedure is done or medication is taken to end a pregnancy, it is called an induced abortion.
What is a first-trimester abortion?

A first-trimester abortion can be performed up to 13 weeks of pregnancy. Most induced abortions are performed during the first trimester. A first-trimester abortion is one of the safest medical procedures. It can be done safely in a health care provider’s office or clinic.

A first-trimester abortion can be performed with surgery (a procedure called suction curettage) or by taking medication. Suction curettage is the most common type of abortion.
How is a first-trimester surgical abortion performed?

A speculum is inserted into your vagina to hold it open. Your cervix usually is dilated (opened) so that a suction tube can fit through it. Your cervix is dilated either at the time of the procedure or before the procedure. When it is done at the time of the procedure, a series of dilators are inserted into and withdrawn from the cervix to gradually increase the size of the opening. When it is done before the procedure, different techniques can be used. Special dilators called laminaria can be inserted into the cervix. Medications also can be taken by mouth or placed in the vagina to dilate the cervix.

After the cervix is dilated, a thin, plastic tube is inserted into the uterus. It is attached to a suction or vacuum pump, which removes the pregnancy.
What kind of pain relief is given for the procedure?

Before

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