Abortion

Abortion Procedures

Abortion is a very controversial issue, but through education and better understanding of the facts we can make more informed decisions concerning abortion and pregnancy.

Second Trimester Procedures (13-24 weeks)
  1. Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) - At this point in pregnancy, the pre-born's body is too large to be broken up by suction and it will not pass through the suction tubing. The cervix [1] must be more dilated (opened) than in a first-trimester abortion. This is usually accomplished by inserting laminaria [2] a day or two before the abortion. The physician then dilates the cervix and dismembers the body by crushing the skull and spine to facilitate removal.

  2. Saline, Prostaglandin, and Urea Instillation - These methods, more common during the 1970s and 1980s, are rarely used now according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), which reported that they account for only 0.7% (or approximately 11,200) of all reported abortions in 1991.

What are the physical risks of a second trimester surgical abortion?

Dilation and Evacuation (D&E):

  • Retained tissue, including the placenta.
  • Uterine perforation, possibly resulting in severe pain and blood loss. This may require major surgery, including hysterectomy.
  • Cervical laceration, perforation, heavy bleeding (hemorrhage), and infection.
  • Infection

Getting accurate statistics on abortion complications and death rates is difficult. Reporting on abortions is strictly voluntary in most states.

 

 

[1] cervix - the opening to the uterus or womb.
[2] laminaria - a porous material which expands with moisture in order to open and soften
the cervix.

 

The information on this website is for general educational purposes and is not intended to be a substitute for professional counseling. If your situation is an emergency, please call 911.