Early Abortion Methods

Eastside Gynecology specializes in early abortion methods.

We offer suction abortion, also known as manual vacuum aspiration (MVA), between 5 and 9 weeks of pregnancy. This is one of the most minor invasive procedures we offer. MVA is performed with a mini handheld vacuum that produces gentle suction. The process takes about 5 minutes and requires no electronic machinery and no scratching. You can choose to have local anesthesia in the exam room or general anesthesia in the operating room.

If you choose general anesthesia, you will be asleep during the abortion and your caregivers will not be allowed into the operating room. With minimal follow-up or recovery time, you can leave the office and resume normal activities. Before you decide which type of anesthesia you would like to proceed with you should know that general anesthesia is when the patient remains asleep during the entire abortion procedure. The patient may feel some discomfort upon awakening, like menstrual cramps. Compared local anesthesia, is when medication is administered to numb the cervix. During the procedure, the patient will feel some discomfort resembling menstrual cramps.

What to Expect at Home: Your Recovery Activity
1. Rest when tired.
2. Getting enough sleep can help you recover.
3. Most women can return to normal activities 1 to 2 days after surgery.
4. Ask your doctor when you can resume vigorous exercise.

Diet
1. You can eat your normal diet.
2. If you have an upset stomach, try bland, low-fat foods like white rice, grilled chicken, toast, and yogurt.

Medicines
1. Your doctor will tell you when you can start taking your medicine again.
2. You will also receive instructions about taking your new medicine.
3. If you take aspirin or other blood thinners, ask your doctor when you should start taking them again.
4. Make sure you fully understand what your doctor expects of you. If your doctor prescribes antibiotics for you, take them as directed. Don’t stop taking it just because you feel better. You must take the entire course of antibiotics.