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DESCRIPTION
This procedure is a technique of electively terminating a pregnancy. In this method, drugs are used to initiate labor. 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.
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.
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.
DESCRIPTION OF PROCEDURE
Prostaglandins stimulate uterine contraction. Either vaginal prostaglandin E2 or intramuscular injections of 15(S)-15-methyl prostaglandin F2alpha can be used.
About Prostaglandin (PGE2)
The drugs are repeated every few hours until abortion occurs.
If needed, there are several methods available that help soften (ripen) the cervix to make it ready for the procedure.
The drug oxytocin (Pitocin) is often used to further help induce contractions.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
Expect complete healing without complication. Allow about 1 week for recovery from surgery.
Side effects from the drugs can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, facial flushing and shortness of breath (bronchospasm).
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Retained placenta (usually can be removed with the use of surgical instruments).
Excessive bleeding.
Failure of the procedure to expel all the tissue.
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.
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.
ACTIVITY
Have someone drive you home after the surgery. Rest quietly there 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.
DIET
No special diet.
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONER IF...
Any of the following occurs:
Excessive vaginal bleeding develops.
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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LINKS
Drawing obtained from Obstetrics Illustrated, 3rd Edition by Garry, Govan, Hodge, & Callander
