DESCRIPTION

Menstrual extraction is a technique of electively terminating a pregnancy. This procedure is done in the early weeks of pregnancy. Pregnancy may or may not have been diagnosed as some women do not wish to know if they are pregnant. This information and instruction is based on the assumption that you have had, or will have, counseling and competent guidance in making your decision to seek this procedure for termination of the pregnancy.

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REASONS FOR PROCEDURE

Personal concerns about the social or economic aspects that involve an unplanned pregnancy.

Continuing with the pregnancy may pose a threat to the life of the mother.

Mother has a genetic condition which the fetus is at significant risk of acquiring, or the fetus has been tested and is known to have the condition (such as cystic fibrosis).

Pregnancy resulted from a rape.

Fetus is affected with a major disorder such as chromosomal abnormality or birth defect.

Fear that the fetus has been harmed by medications or other conditions.

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RISK INCREASES WITH

Obesity.

Smoking.

Poor nutrition.

Recent or chronic illness.

Use of drugs such as anti-hypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleep inducers; insulin; sedatives; narcotics; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.

Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedative; hypnotics; or cocaine.

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DESCRIPTION OF PROCEDURE

The procedure may be performed in the health care provider's office or an out patient clinic.

There is usually no need for an anesthetic, however a local anesthesia may be injected into the area around the cervix if necessary.

When the cervix is dilated, there may be some feelings of pressure.

A thin plastic tube is inserted through the canal of the cervix into the cavity of the uterus. The tube is connected to a suction apparatus such as a syringe or other suction machine. Gentle suction is applied for just a few minutes while the health care provider sweeps the tube around inside the uterus. These maneuvers gently remove the implanted fertilized egg.

During the procedure, you may experience cramping discomfort from the uterus, some nausea, and sweating or a feeling of faintness. These should pass quickly.

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EXPECTED OUTCOME

Termination of the pregnancy.

Expect complete healing without complication. Allow about 1 week for recovery from surgery.

There is no evidence of problems with later pregnancies for women who have had uncomplicated first-trimester suction abortions.

Your next menstrual period should begin 4 to 6 weeks after the procedure.

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POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

Rarely, the procedure is unsuccessful in terminating the pregnancy.

Excessive bleeding.

Perforation or infection of the uterus.

POST-PROCEDURE CARE

GENERAL MEASURES

If you have pain, place a heating pad or hot-water bottle on the abdomen or back. Hot baths frequently promote muscle relaxation and relieve discomfort. Repeat the baths as often as they provide comfort.

Use sanitary napkins for bleeding, which may last for several days. If bleeding continues 10 to 14 days after surgery, you may use tampons.

If contraception is desired, it can often be initiated shortly after the procedure. If you wish to take birth control pills, begin taking them either on the night you return from surgery or the next day. If you prefer an IUD, diaphragm or cervical cap, the fitting can be made during you next clinical appointment.

Your next menstrual period should begin 4 to 6 weeks after the procedure. If you take birth control pills, your first period will begin after you complete the first cycle of pills.

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MEDICATION

Prescription pain medication should generally be required for only 2 to 7 days following the procedure.

You may use non-prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

Antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce risk of infection.

Stool softener laxative, if needed to prevent constipation.

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ACTIVITY

Rest quietly at home for the remainder of the day. Resume normal activities slowly the next day, if you feel able.

Avoid sexual relations for 2 weeks following the operation.

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DIET

No special diet.



NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONER IF...

Any of the following occurs:

Pain, swelling, redness or drainage increases in the genital area.

You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness, or a general ill feeling and fever, with a temperature of over 100°F orally.

New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.

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