PREGNANCY TERMINATION PROCEDURE
An office termination of pregnancy always involves two steps. It is a type of "D&C". The "D" stands for dilation or stretching gently the opening of the cervix. The "C" stands for curettage which means removal of the lining of the uterus. This can be done in several ways. I use a small plastic tube and gentle suction.
If you have any questions about the procedure please ask one of my nurses or me.
All surgical procedures, no matter how minor, have risks and possible complications. This risks of having an office termination of pregnancy are less than that of continuing the pregnancy. For a detailed discussion of the risks involved, consult "COMPLICATIONS OF PREGNANCY TERMINATION."
You need a blood test to determine your blood type and Rh factor.
A local anesthetic will be sprayed on your cervix to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Many women may still have cramping. Some women feel no discomfort at all, but a few women have cramps that are quite uncomfortable. For this reason we will be giving you anti-cramp medication and tranquilizers prior to the procedure. The tranquilizer may make you feel sleepy or intoxicated so you must have a ride to and from the office. DO NOT DRIVE YOURSELF! For the rest of the day you may be sleepy or unable to think clearly. For this reason on the day of the procedure don't plan to do anything significant or anything where judgement is required. Don't drive, use dangerous machinery, drink alcohol, use drugs, go shopping or be responsible for the care of young children. Plan to take the day completely off!
Many women are nervous and some women have uncomfortable cramps. If you have eaten recently, you might get an upset stomach, so don't eat or drink anything before coming to the office. If you are nervous or have uncomfortable cramps the last thing you want is to have an upset stomach, too.
Don't worry if you feel nervous or tense. That's perfectly normal. I want to reassure you that I have the most modern equipment and the best trained staff. You came to the right place.