Second Trimester: Dilation and Evacuation
During the second trimester, if you are beyond 12 weeks pregnant, your healthcare provider will perform an ultrasound to determine the stage of your pregnancy. The further along you are, the more preparation your body may require for the procedure.
While vacuum aspirations can be performed up to approximately 14 weeks, the most common method for second-trimester abortion is known as dilation and evacuation (D&E).
Before commencing this procedure, your provider will first prepare and dilate your cervix to minimize any potential injury. This may involve the use of laminaria sticks, which could be left in overnight. Additionally, you may receive medication such as misoprostol, orally or vaginally, to soften the uterus, along with the potential use of instruments to aid in cervical dilation.
Similar to a first-trimester abortion, you will be positioned on an examination table with your feet in stirrups. Your healthcare provider will cleanse your vagina and cervix with Betadine, administer anesthesia to the cervix, and utilize a gripping tool to secure it in place.
The key distinction lies in the utilization of forceps and other medical instruments, including a curette, to scrape the interior of the uterus alongside vacuum suction. Your doctor may employ ultrasound guidance and may administer medication via injection into your abdomen to halt the fetal heartbeat prior to the procedure. Following this, medication may be provided to induce uterine contractions and reduce bleeding.
The procedure typically lasts between 10 to 20 minutes, followed by a resting period of 30 minutes to an hour under observation by healthcare providers to ensure your well-being.
