Abortion is a general term that refers to the termination of a pregnancy. Many people believe there is only one type of abortion. As a matter of fact, there are several different types of abortions that are performed during different milestones in a pregnancy. Three very common abortion procedures include: the abortion pill, vacuum aspiration, and D & E.

Abortion Pill

One of the most private ways to experience an abortion is with the abortion pill. This procedure involves the pregnant woman swallowing or inserting a pill. This pill causes the uterus to cramp, contract, and expel the fertilized egg. The abortion pill is only an option up through the eighth week of pregnancy. Many women prefer this procedure since it seems more natural and is less invasive.

Vacuum Aspiration

The next type of abortion procedure is usually performed during the sixth through the thirteenth week. It is called vacuum aspiration. This has three steps. First, there is an injection to numb the cervix area. Second, a tube is inserted through the cervix and stops inside the uterus. Then a manual suction device is used to suck out the uterine lining and fertilized egg. This is probably the type of abortion in which most people are aware.

D & E Dilation and extraction (D & E) is another type of abortion procedure. This abortion is completed during the second trimester of pregnancy. Since the contents of the uterus are larger, the cervix must be dilated over a one to two day period. Once there is enough dilation, the woman is put under anesthesia and all contents of the uterus are removed. This abortion procedure is slightly more serious, so ultrasounds are completed to be sure all uterine contents have been removed.

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