Abortion

Abortion is a method used to terminate unwanted or unhealthy pregnancies. Besides emotional concerns, the pressure created by the surgical procedure is also a significant source of stress for patients. Based on my experiences in gynecology, obstetrics, and IVF, I, Op. Dr. Fatma Horasan, have addressed the frequently asked questions and concerns regarding the abortion procedure. You can find answers to any questions you may have while deciding on the procedure in this article. If the topic you are curious about is not covered below, please feel free to contact us for detailed information.

When can the abortion procedure be performed?

In our country, pregnancies up to 10 weeks can be legally terminated upon request. The exact gestational age can be determined through ultrasonography. To undergo this procedure, one must first consult a gynecologist and obstetrician. The doctor will examine your overall health and any conditions related to gynecology to identify any issues that may prevent the abortion. In cases of abnormal fetal development or when the pregnancy poses a risk to the mother’s life, the fetus can be medically terminated at any stage with the preparation of the necessary legal documents.

When does pregnancy begin? How is gestational age calculated?

Pregnancy starts not on the day of intercourse but from the first day of the last menstrual period. So, when the period is one day late, it can be said that the pregnancy is four weeks old. Patients often miscalculate the gestational age by two weeks more or less. To calculate correctly, the first day of the last menstrual period should be considered.

How is pregnancy terminated? What method is used during an abortion?

During the abortion procedure, general anesthesia is usually applied, depending on the patient's condition, though in some cases, local anesthesia is used. If general anesthesia is administered, the patient remains asleep and feels nothing during the procedure. With local anesthesia, the patient may feel slight abdominal and pelvic pain during the termination. There are two common methods used during abortion. One of these methods, curettage with curettes, is rarely used. The most common method is vacuum aspiration, which is used to terminate the pregnancy. At our clinic in İzmir, the abortion procedure is performed using the vacuum method (vacuum aspiration). Vacuum abortion is a very quick and painless method. The procedure is performed using hygienic and modern equipment in our clinic. General anesthesia is administered intravenously at the start of the procedure. The patient can resume normal activities 20 minutes after the procedure is completed.

Will others know that I had an abortion?

Abortion is a woman's legal right. No information will be disclosed to anyone unless there is a court order. However, an individual under the age of 18 cannot undergo the procedure without family consent. A married woman can only have an abortion after a joint decision with her husband.

Where should the abortion be performed?

The abortion procedure should never be performed in unlicensed operating rooms. Our fully-equipped clinic in İzmir, which is equipped with the latest technology, is ready to serve you. Your health is important to us.

Can a miscarriage be induced with pills?

Miscarriage can be induced with pills, but a follow-up curettage may be necessary to remove any remaining tissue in the uterus.

What should be done in cases of irregular and intermittent bleeding?

In cases of irregular and intermittent bleeding, a tissue sample is taken from the uterus and sent for histopathological examination. This procedure is also known as curettage, endometrial curettage, or probe curettage.

How long does the abortion procedure take?

The vacuum abortion method takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes. The patient wakes up within 3 minutes but does not remember anything.

Could there be any complications during the abortion procedure?

The patient is warned about any infections, lesions, or suspicious findings on the cervix observed during the procedure. During the post-procedure check-up, a week later, a smear test for cervical cancer screening can be performed by taking a swab from the cervix. Early diagnosis of cervical cancer is determined using a device called a colposcope, which magnifies the image of the cervix.

What should be done after the abortion procedure?

After the procedure, bleeding and pain control are carried out. Blood pressure and pulse are checked, and then the patient is discharged.

Should a follow-up check be done after the abortion?

An ultrasound check 5 days after the procedure is essential. Bleeding, infection, or remaining tissue is checked since even a 1-millimeter residue can cause bleeding.

Can an intrauterine device (IUD) be inserted after the abortion procedure?

An IUD can be inserted after the procedure, but a cervical cancer screening test (smear test) must have been done, and there should be no bleeding.

Are there any side effects of abortion?

Within 5-7 days after the procedure, a withdrawal bleeding due to hormonal changes may occur.

When will the next period occur after an abortion?

A period is expected to occur 30-45 days after the procedure.

Should medication be taken after the abortion procedure?

After the procedure, it is necessary to take antibiotics and medication as prescribed.

Is it safe to have sexual intercourse after the abortion procedure?

Due to the risk of infection, sexual intercourse is prohibited for a period after the procedure.

Is abortion performed solely based on a woman’s decision? Does spousal consent matter?

If the patient is 18 years old and unmarried, she can terminate the pregnancy with her own consent. However, if she is 18 years old and married, her spouse's consent is also required.

Recommendations Regarding Abortion

• If your period is 1 day late, the pregnancy is considered to be 4 weeks old. Pregnancy begins from the first day of the last menstrual period. Every first day of menstruation prepares the uterus for a new pregnancy. The legal limit is 10 weeks.
• The procedure is mostly performed using plastic Karman cannula with vacuum aspiration.
• An ultrasound is done to diagnose an ectopic pregnancy before the normal pregnancy diagnosis. Please fast for 4-6 hours.
• Do not drive after an abortion; you can return to work.
• Since ovulation may occur again 10-15 days after the abortion, a contraceptive method should be used.
• If there is Rh incompatibility, an Anti-D injection must be administered within 72 hours.
• Consult your doctor for contraceptive methods; the method most suitable for you will be applied.
• Abortion does not cause infertility. Please return for a follow-up check 5-10 days after the procedure.
• If you experience a fever, heavy bleeding, or foul-smelling discharge, contact your doctor immediately.
• Expect slight hormonal bleeding 3-5 days after the procedure, and your next period in 30-45 days.
• If there is partial bleeding or if bleeding lasts longer than 7 days, contact your doctor.
• If there is a septum in the uterus, pregnancy cannot be achieved and may continue; please return for a check-up.
• Sexual intercourse is prohibited for 10 days after the procedure.
• Consume liquids after the procedure. Take plenty of fluids 4-6 hours before the procedure.