General Information About Abortion

Why Might an Abortion Be Needed?

Abortion is most commonly sought to terminate an unwanted pregnancy. However, it may also be needed in the following situations:

• When uterine cleaning is medically necessary
• For diagnosing uterine-related conditions
• When tissue samples from the uterus are required for pathological examination

How Is an Abortion Performed?

Modern, safe, and reliable abortion procedures can be performed under local or general anesthesia in a comfortable clinical setting, usually within 3-5 minutes. Although general anesthesia slightly increases the cost, it is often preferred and recommended due to its psychological comfort for the patient and complete absence of pain during the procedure.

In response to the question 'How is an abortion performed?', the process can be summarized as follows: After anesthesia is administered, the patient is positioned for the procedure. A gynecological examination is first conducted to assess the size and condition of the uterus. Once this is established, a vaginal speculum is inserted to expose the cervix.

The vagina and cervix are cleansed with antiseptic solutions to prevent potential infections. If local anesthesia is to be used, it is administered at this stage by injecting medication into both sides of the cervix. The cervix is then held with a tenaculum, which may cause discomfort. The cervix is gently aligned using the tenaculum.

Dilators, known as 'bougies', are then used to gradually widen the cervix, starting with the thinnest size possible.

Once the cervix is sufficiently dilated, a plastic cannula is inserted into the uterus. The cannula is attached to a specialized syringe designed to create vacuum pressure. Negative pressure is generated by opening the syringe valve, and the uterine contents are removed through gentle back-and-forth motions. The procedure continues until the uterus is fully cleared.

How Long Does an Abortion Take?

Today, abortions are commonly performed using the vacuum aspiration method, a globally accepted surgical technique that minimizes risks. This easy, practical, and low-risk method typically takes about 10–15 minutes.

If sedation (twilight anesthesia) is used, an additional 10–15 minutes of recovery time may be needed post-procedure. In total, the patient's clinic visit, including the procedure and recovery, usually does not exceed 30 minutes.

Why Is the Vacuum Aspiration Method Preferred?

According to national law, elective abortions are legally permitted up to the 10th week of pregnancy. However, if there is fetal abnormality or absence of heartbeat, termination is allowed up to the 24th week.

The most frequently used and safest method for patients is vacuum aspiration. This technique employs instruments called Karman cannulas to evacuate the uterus. Abortion performed this way is referred to as vacuum aspiration abortion.

The primary advantages of vacuum aspiration include its short duration, minimal side effects, reduced pain, and the use of disposable cannulas, which significantly lowers the risk of infection.

Until What Week Can an Abortion Be Performed?

According to national legislation, elective abortions are permitted up to the 10th week of pregnancy. However, if tests such as amniocentesis reveal severe fetal abnormalities or life-incompatible conditions, abortion may be allowed up to the 24th week.

Due to the 10-week legal limit on elective abortions, it is important for individuals who do not wish to continue a pregnancy to make a decision as early as possible. Delays may lead to passing the legal time limit. Furthermore, the further the pregnancy progresses, the higher the potential risks and complications, which is why prompt action is strongly advised.

In cases of serious fetal anomalies or health conditions incompatible with life—confirmed through tests like amniocentesis—abortion is legally permissible up to the 24th week.