Elective abortion is the term used for what we generally refer to as abortion or termination. Spontaneous abortions are what we generally refer to as miscarriage. This paper will be focusing solely on the former aspect of abortion.
Methods of elective abortions:
There are two medically recognised methods of elective abortion. One being the use of a medical procedure, and the other being a surgical procedure.
The surgical procedure takes less than 15 minutes, and is generally performed using ‘suction (vacuum) aspiration’. For this type of procedure the pregnant person cannot be further than 12 weeks pregnant (within the first trimester). The procedure involves gradually widening the cervix opening with rods that increase in size. Once wise enough to fit surgical instruments needed a slim tube it inserted into the uterus via the cervix. The foetus and placenta is then gently removed via suction. In order to ensure the uterus is completely empty the surgeon then uses a curette to scrape the tissue from inside the uterus.
When a pregnant person is at a later stage in the pregnancy the surgical procedure is somewhat similar to the procedure for easier pregnancies, however the cervix is prepared differently. This preparation may include hormone blocking tablets, other medications and different surgical devices.
As with all surgeries complications can arise, however this type is generally very safe and enables the patient to return home shortly after surgery. A hot water pack and rest are vital post surgery as one may experience cramping and bleeding. Bleeding and spotting can continue for days and/or weeks post surgery and should be seen to by a doctor should it be a cause of concern.
Potential complications:
haemorrhage – if the bleeding post op is more than a regular period one must immediately seek medical assistance. The abortion may not be complete or some other problem may be present.
infection – it is important to treat abortions as any other kind of surgery, one of the most factors being to avoid infection. Showering rather than bathing is one such way to do this. STIs can contribute to infection as well as ignoring problems post-op.
injury to the uterus – sometimes the surgeon may slip and perforate the uterus. This is a rare occurrence and is usually seen to immediately.
injury to the cervix – this generally only happen when one has had multiple surgeries due to a weakening of the cervix.
The medical procedure is carried out in two stages. In the first stage, one takes a tablet which blocks the hormones needed to continue the pregnancy. The second stage involves taking another tablet around 24-48 hours after the first tablet, which makes the uterus contract and express the foetus. The medical procedure can only be carried out by people 9 weeks pregnant or less.
The medical procedure is low risk and has a 98% success rate.
Potential complications:
haemorrhage – heavy and prolonged bleeding can happen with his procedure, however it is good to monitor how much blood is passed and to contact your medical professional should it be of concern.
infection – infection and fever may occur with this kind of procedure. If so one must contact a medical professional immediately
Digestive discomfort - cramping and general discomfort of the abdomen, particularly the lower abdomen
Incomplete abortion- if this occurs one will likely need to seek a surgical abortion
Natural remedies:
There are said to be some herbs used for elective abortion however unfortunately there is no scientific research into this area. If this is of interest to you seek out a professional who specialises in the realm of plants and who can check in with your body to ensure you are physically fit for this kind of procedure.
Legislation:
The laws around abortion vary from country to country and state to state. Where abortion is illegal (or legal ir the result of rape and/or injury to mother) abortion is not less sought after, but rather carried out in dangerous ways, commonly referred to as 'backyard abortions" or "coat hanger abortions". The timing in which that a pregnant person can attain a legal abortion also varies from place to place. ace
For more information on the legislation of elective abortions see here.
In Australia approximately 80,000 people will have an elective abortion per year.
Fertility awareness is one of the best scientific-backed ways to not have to journey the often difficult initiation of abortion. For more information on cycle tracking and fertility awareness see here.
Post abortion support:
I have a free program for anyone needing support
For nutrition to best support your abortion watch this
To listen to Tanishka and I share on the topic click here