What to Expect When Visiting an Abortion Clinic?

Abortion or Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) is a one-day medical procedure to end a pregnancy. The procedure is usually done in a doctor’s office or abortion clinic during the first trimester or early second trimester of pregnancy. Wondering what to expect during your visit to an abortion clinic? Here you go!

How do abortions work?

Surgical abortions, also known as in-clinic abortions, involve using medical instruments to remove the pregnancy from the uterus. There are two main types of surgical abortions: aspiration (also known as vacuum aspiration) and dilation and evacuation (D&E).

• Aspiration abortion: This method is typically used for pregnancies up to 14 weeks. The procedure involves using a small suction device, called a cannula, to remove the pregnancy from the uterus. First, the cervix is dilated, or opened, using medical instruments or medication. Then, the cannula is inserted through the cervix into the uterus, and suction removes the pregnancy. The procedure usually takes around 5-10 minutes.

• Dilation and evacuation (D&E): This method is for pregnancies beyond 14 weeks. It involves dilating the cervix using medical instruments or medication and then using a combination of suction and medical instruments to remove the pregnancy from the uterus. D&E usually takes longer than aspiration abortion and may require sedation or anaesthesia.

A step-by-step guide

Step 1: Schedule an Appointment

The first step to getting an abortion is to schedule an appointment with a reputable abortion clinic. You can find a clinic by searching online or asking for recommendations from your doctor, friends, or family. Most clinics require you to make an appointment in advance, so plan ahead.

Step 2: Pre-Abortion Counselling

When you arrive at the clinic, you will receive pre-abortion counselling. This counselling is designed to help you understand your options, risks, and benefits of the procedure. The counsellor will also ask you questions about your medical history, such as if you have any allergies or medications you are currently taking.

Step 3: Medical Exam

After counselling, you'll undergo a medical exam. This exam is similar to a regular gynaecological exam and includes a pelvic exam, blood tests, and an ultrasound to determine how far along your pregnancy is.

Step 4: Abortion Procedure

The abortion procedure itself typically takes less than 30 minutes to complete. There are two types of abortion procedures: medication abortion and surgical abortion. Medication abortion involves taking medication to end the pregnancy, while surgical abortion involves the use of instruments to remove the pregnancy.

Step 5: Recovery and Follow-Up

After the procedure, you will be moved to a recovery room so that doctors can monitor your health for recovery. The staff will offer clear instructions on how to care for yourself at home and schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure you are healing properly.

The bottom line

Visiting an abortion clinic can be a scary experience, but it's important to remember that abortion clinics provide safe and legal healthcare services for women. If you are considering an abortion, do your research, find a reputable clinic, and prepare yourself for the process. Just find abortion clinics with seasoned doctors and state-of-the-art facilities, and your abortion can go as seamlessly as any other surgical procedure.