What to Expect:
*Offered to patients who are between 5w 3d minimum – 10w 3d maximum*
Explanation
After completing the preliminary meeting patients will consult with the physician who will determine, by ultrasound, the age and location of the pregnancy. If the patient is eligible for the medication abortion the physician will provide the first medication, Mifeprex, to be taken by mouth in our office. This medication blocks the action of progesterone, a hormone needed to sustain a developing pregnancy. This causes the uterine lining to thin and the pregnancy to detach from the uterine wall.
The second medication, Misoprostol, will be given to the patient to take home. The physician will instruct her on how and when to use this medication. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract, which aids in expelling the pregnancy.
Completing the Medical Abortion at Home
On the morning you choose to place the Misoprostol (AT LEAST twenty-four (24) hours after taking the Mifeprex by mouth, NOT EXCEEDING seventy-two (72) hours after taking the Mifeprex by mouth) do the following:
1. Between 7:00 am and 8:00 am, take one (1) 25 mg of Phenergan.
2. Take one (1) pain tablet (Vicoprofen, Lortab, etc.)
3. Using your finger, insert one by one each of the four (4) Misoprostol tablets into your vagina as far back as possible.
4. Lay down for two (2) hours while the Misoprostol is absorbed.
For most women bleeding and cramping will begin anywhere from thirty (30) minutes to four (4) hours after you insert the Misoprostol. On average significant heavy cramping, bleeding, and passing of blood clots, much like or heavier than a bad period, will start and generally last twenty-four (24) to forty-eight (48) hours, then tapers off like a period over the next five (5) to seven (7) days. Do not use a tampon. Maxi Pads only. Continue to take the Phenergan and pain tablets as instructed on the medication bottles.
First trimester surgical abortion procedure Vacuum Aspiration
Explanation
*Offered to patients who are between 5w 3d minimum – 11w 6d maximum*
Vacuum aspiration patients will meet with the physician prior to entering the exam room. This is an excellent opportunity to discuss any additional questions or concerns you may have. Trained female workers attend each patient throughout her abortion experience to provide emotional support and assist with relaxation.
Soothing music, lighting, and our commitment to assisting each patient individually help to provide a safe and supportive environment.
The Procedure
Once in the exam room, the patient will be left with instructions to undress from the waist down and given a drape sheet to cover with. When the physician and support staff return, an ultrasound will be done to determine the age and location of the pregnancy. Nitrous oxide gas, a mild sedative that helps with relaxation, will be offered at no additional cost.
The doctor will insert a speculum into the vagina, similar to a pap-smear, so that the doctor can see the patients cervix. Then the cervix is prepared first with a disinfectant called betadine. This will feel cold and wet. Then the doctor will numb the cervix using a local anesthetic called lidocaine. This will be administered via 3 injections which will feel like a slight pinch and burn. Typically the third injection is not felt as the cervix will be sufficiently numbed.
Once prepared the cervical opening is gently dilated. After dilation a small cannula is inserted through the cervical opening into the uterine cavity. The cannula is attached to the aspirator which provides a light suction to remove the pregnancy. The aspiration usually last for about 2 minutes, and then the procedure is complete.
Women describe the pain or discomfort associated with the procedure as mild to moderate to severe cramping. Most women tolerate the procedure well without additional sedation which can increase risks and prolong recovery time. Once the procedure is finished the doctor and support staff will exit the room, but first the patient will be directed to re-dress. A support staff member will return a few minutes later to guide the patient to the recovery room.
Recovery
The vacuum aspiration procedure is followed by a recovery period of at least 30-45 minutes, depending on the patient’s own situation and needs. During this time her condition and vital signs will be monitored. She will be offered refreshments, have an opportunity to rest, review after care instructions, and discuss any medications that may have been prescribed. Heating pads and pain medication are available to assist in relieving discomfort.
Patients are encouraged to rest the remainder of the day. Although heavy lifting and strenuous exercise are discouraged for the first 10 days following the abortion procedure, many women are able to return to school or work the following day.
If the patient has any additional questions or concerns at this time, she is encouraged to ask them. Post procedure medications and instructions are given prior to discharge and appropriate contact information is needed in case of an emergency.
Learn here about Fake Clinics – Crisis Pregnancy Centers
