Vacuum Aspiration Surgery Overview In vacuum aspiration, a doctor uses gentle suction to remove the contents of the uterus. There are two methods of vacuum (or suction) aspiration.
Manual vacuum aspiration involves the use of a specially designed syringe to apply suction. A thin tube is passed into the uterus. Then a valve is released that creates suction to remove the tissue.Electric vacuum aspiration involves the use of a thin tube that is attached to a pump. The tube is passed into the uterus. Then suction is used to remove the tissue.What to Expect
Vacuum aspiration is a minor medical procedure. A normal recovery includes:
Irregular bleeding or spotting for the first 2 weeks. Use sanitary pads until you stop bleeding. Using pads makes it easier to monitor your bleeding. Cramps similar to menstrual cramps. They help to shrink the uterus back to its non-pregnant size. You may have cramping for up to a few weeks. After the procedure:
Why It Is Done
Vacuum aspiration can be done in the first trimester to end a pregnancy. It may also be done to empty the uterus after:
A failed or incomplete medical abortion. Death of the embryo or fetus (miscarriage). Load More Information about Vacuum Aspiration
How Well It Works
Vacuum aspiration is a common type of surgical abortion. It is usually effective. In rare cases, the procedure doesn't end a pregnancy. This is more likely to happen during the earliest weeks of pregnancy.
Risks
Vacuum aspiration rarely causes any problems. Possible problems include:
Tissue remaining in the uterus. Failure to end the pregnancy (when it's used for abortion). Injury to the cervix. A hole in the wall of the uterus (uterine perforation). Heavy vaginal bleeding. Infection. Credits
Current as of: April 30, 2024
Current as of: April 30, 2024