Vacuum Aspiration

1. Dilation

The first step in a surgical abortion is to dilate the cervix. The cervix is a ring of muscles located at the base of the uterus. The cervix normally remains tightly closed until it dilates naturally during labor at the end of a pregnancy.

a. Procedure: A series of rods or rings of progressive thickness are used to dilate the cervix. The purpose of a dilation procedure is to open the cervix so surgical instruments can be inserted.

b. Possible Complications:

• Bleeding and laceration (tearing) of the cervix
  
• May lead to miscarriages and premature births
  
• Increased risk of cervical cancer

2. Vacuum Aspiration (Suction)

a. Procedure: When the cervix has been dilated, a plastic tube is inserted through the vagina into the uterus. The tube is connected to a machine-operated suction. The suctioning of the unborn child and tissue lasts between four and ten minutes.

b. Possible Complications:

• Infections of the uterus can result in Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID).
  
• Hemorrhaging can occur following any abortion.