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DESCRIPTION
Suction Curettage is a technique of electively terminating a pregnancy. It involves the removal of the fetus and accompanying tissue of the pregnancy from the uterus with instrumental evacuation through the vagina. Over 90% of induced abortions in the USA are performed by this method. 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
A local anesthetic is used, sometimes accompanied by a tranquilizer.
The opening of the cervix is enlarged by instruments (most often) or other method.
A small, hollow plastic tube is passed through the vagina and canal of the cervix into the cavity of the uterus. The tube is connected to a suction apparatus.
Gentle suction through the tube removes the uterine contents. You may feel cramps in the lower abdomen, nausea, sweating and faintness.
The tube is removed and the lining of the uterus is scraped with a curette to be sure all the placental tissue is removed.
Total time elapsed is 10 to 15 minutes.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
Expect complete healing without complication. Allow about 1 week for recovery from surgery.
Future pregnancies should be uncomplicated.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Excessive bleeding.
Perforation or infection of the uterus.
Potential psychological problems. POST-PROCEDURE CARE
GENERAL MEASURES
Have someone drive you home from surgery. Rest quietly there for the remainder of the day.
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.
Antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce risk of infection.
Stool softener laxative, if needed to prevent constipation.
ACTIVITY
Rest quietly at home for the remainder of the day. Resume normal activities slowly the next day, if you feel able. Light or moderate vaginal bleeding will occur on and off for 10 to 14 days after surgery. Bed rest will reduce bleeding.
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:
Pain, swelling, redness or drainage increases in the surgical 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.
You experience new symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, constipation or abdominal swelling.
New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.
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LINKS
MoonDragon's Obgyn Information: Abortion - Post Abortion Syndrome (PAS)
