Abortion Operation
You will be prepared for the operation by a nurse and then you will meet the operating doctor and the anaesthetist.
The abortion itself is done using vacuum aspiration and is done under anaesthetic. Once the cervix is gently opened, a small suction tube is used to empty the uterus. The operation itself takes 10 to 20 minutes.
There are three anaesthesia options:
- Local anaesthetic; where you are awake during the procedure.
- Local anaesthetic with light sedation; or
- Local anaesthetic with light, general anaesthetic, where you are asleep during the procedure.
The anaesthetic that is right for you will have been decided during the consultation between you and the doctor taking into consideration: your personal preference for the level of awareness during the procedure; your sensitivity to cramping pain; and, your level of anxiety about the operation.
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