Despite the fact that in the last decade there were alternative methods of abortion, surgical (instrumental) abortion has not lost its relevance and is used in cases when the other methods are not effective. Indications for instrumental abortion are limited, since of all methods, classical abortion is most dangerous in terms of complications. But in case of unsuccessful abortion with vacuum aspiration ( vacuum abortion ) or medical abortion, as well as late pregnancy, the patient and doctors have no other choice.
Instrumental abortion
Instrumental abortion implies direct contact of surgical instruments with fetal tissues that are mechanically removed from the uterus. This procedure is traumatic for the body, and regardless of the qualification of the doctor, can have serious complications with regard to the woman's genital function.
To all, prolonged discomfort after the procedure adversely affects the overall condition and quality of life of the patient.
How is surgical abortion done?
Surgical abortion is done under general anesthesia. This choice is due to the fact that the procedure requires complete muscle relaxation, as well as to avoid the psychological and physical discomfort of the patient during the operation.
The type of anesthesia is determined by the doctor, after detailed communication with the woman, taking into account all its features and concomitant disease. It is recommended to refrain from eating for 12 hours before the operation. Properly selected drugs and adequate preparation of the patient provide an easy way out of the anesthesia after the procedure.
Intervention itself takes about forty minutes on average. It is carried out by a qualified gynecologist in a specially equipped room. In carrying out abortion surgically, there are always two stages - dilatation (expansion) and curettage (scraping).
At the first stage, the doctor opens the cervix with the help of surgical dilators. The most serious complication associated with this part of the intervention is cervical insufficiency, that is, with the subsequent desired pregnancy, the cervix will not be able to keep in a closed state, provoking premature births at very early stages.
The second and most important stage of instrumental abortion is scraping. Through the open cervix, the doctor enters the curette (a special tool in the form of a spoon) and removes the fetus. Then, carefully scrub the nearby areas of the uterus, so as not to accidentally leave particles of the tissue of the embryo.
Consequences of surgical abortion
After a surgical abortion, the following complications can be observed:
- bleeding or even bleeding - usually occurs during surgery, or in the early postoperative period when a woman is under observation. With proper care, bleeding stops and the body recovers;
- infection is a very common reason for going to the doctor after an instrumental abortion, which is easily suspected of excreta. If you notice unpleasantly smelling greenish discharge, consult a gynecologist immediately;
- infertility - is associated with the second stage of the operation, when the endometrium is scraped, leaving a scar in place;
- cervical insufficiency - does not allow a woman to normally bear a child.
Medical or surgical abortion
If you have a choice - of course, it is worth considering as an option medical abortion . Its effectiveness is very high, and the incidence of complications can not be compared with the instrumental analogue. Women are much better tolerated this procedure, and the body is not subjected to such stress as in a surgical abortion.