What is Abortion? How is it Performed?
What is Abortion?Abortion, the removal of pregnancy tissue, the fetus, and the placenta through medication or surgery, is a medical procedure performed to end a pregnancy. Abortion , performed within legal frameworks and up to 10 weeks of pregnancy , should be performed by experienced doctors to assess potential symptoms and complications. This procedure, usually performed using a vacuum abortive technique, takes approximately 10-15 minutes and is typically followed by a few hours of observation, depending on the patient's condition, before discharge.
What is Abortion?
Abortion, or more accurately, curettage, generally refers to the expulsion of an unwanted pregnancy from within the uterus. In medical literature, it is also known as "pregnancy termination," "gestational termination," or "dilation-curettage." More commonly, it is referred to as "curettage," "curettage," or "abortion."
Curettage can essentially be thought of as a type of cleansing of the uterine lining. For example, in patients who are not pregnant but present with complaints such as prolonged or abnormal menstrual bleeding, curettage can be used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
What are the types of abortion?
Abortion can be performed using different methods. Common types of abortion are as follows:
- Vacuum abortion (Aspiration abortion): This method involves removing the pregnancy material from the uterus using a vacuum. The cervix is dilated, and the pregnancy tissue is suctioned out using a special vacuum device. It is generally preferred between the first 6 and 16 weeks of pregnancy.
- Dilation and curettage (D&C): This procedure involves dilating the cervix and then scraping the lining of the uterus with a special surgical instrument called a curette. D&C can be used both to terminate a pregnancy and to collect samples of abnormal tissue inside the uterus.
- Medical abortion (medicated abortion): This is a method of terminating a pregnancy using medication. This method is generally preferred within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, if deemed appropriate by the physician and if there is a valid indication. The medications trigger uterine contractions and the shedding of the uterine lining, allowing the pregnancy material to be expelled.
- Dilation and evacuation (D&E): This procedure is usually performed during the second trimester (13-24 weeks) of pregnancy. The cervix is dilated, and the pregnancy material is removed using a larger vacuum device or surgical instruments.
- Abortion pill: This method involves ending the pregnancy using a combination of medications (mifepristone and misoprostol). The first medication prepares the uterine lining, while the second medication induces contractions and expels the pregnancy material. This method is generally used within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy if the doctor deems it appropriate and there is a valid indication.
Abortion options may vary depending on the duration of pregnancy, the patient's health, and the doctor's recommendations. In all cases, the recommendations and guidance of a qualified healthcare professional should be considered.
In What Situations Is Abortion Performed?
Abortion can be performed for various reasons, such as:
- Unwanted pregnancy: Women who do not want a pregnancy can have an abortion within legal and ethical frameworks.
- Health problems: If the expectant mother's health poses serious risks during pregnancy, abortion may be preferred.
- Fetal anomalies: If ultrasound or other medical tests reveal that the fetus has serious health problems or anomalies incompatible with life, abortion may be considered.
- Economic or social reasons: It may not be possible to continue the pregnancy due to family or economic reasons and in such cases, abortion may be preferred.
- In cases of necessity: In cases of pregnancies resulting from sexual abuse or incest, abortion may be considered to prevent serious psychological effects.
- Maternal health: Abortion may be performed during pregnancy due to conditions that threaten maternal health (e.g., preeclampsia).
- Ectopic pregnancy: An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg doesn't implant in the uterus. In this case, an abortion may be necessary.
- Stillbirth: In cases where the baby dies in the womb, an abortion may be necessary to remove the pregnancy material.
The feasibility of abortion depends on local regulations, the duration of pregnancy, maternal health, and other medical factors. Such decisions require careful consultation and evaluation between the patient and doctor.
How Is Abortion Performed?
Abortion is now commonly performed using vacuum suction, a surgical technique. This method boasts advantages such as ease of use, a low risk of miscarriage, and a quick procedure. During the procedure, the woman's uterus is suctioned using a cannula, consisting of a plastic syringe and thin plastic tubing, to remove the fetus. The procedure typically takes approximately 10-15 minutes, typically under local or general anesthesia.
Following the procedure, patients are typically discharged after a one-hour rest period. To reduce the risk of infection, patients are treated with antibiotics. After the abortion , it is recommended to abstain from sexual intercourse for one week and use birth control methods thereafter.
What are the risks of abortion?
Abortion carries some risks that are rare and not seen in everyone. These include infection, bleeding, and uterine injury.
However, the risks that abortion may involve are listed below:
- Infection: There is a risk of infection in the uterus or pelvic area after the procedure. This can cause symptoms such as fever, severe pain, and discharge.
- Bleeding: Excessive bleeding may occur during or after the procedure. This may require surgical intervention.
- Remaining pregnancy tissue in the uterus: In rare cases, the pregnancy tissue may not be completely removed. This may require further intervention.
- Cervical injury: When the cervix is dilated or a cannula (vacuum device) is used, there may be a risk of cervical injury.
- Allergic reactions to medications: Although rare, allergic reactions to the anesthetic or other medications used may occur.
- Nausea and dizziness: Nausea and dizziness may occur after the procedure due to anesthesia or other factors.
These risks should be taken into consideration when making the decision to have an abortion , and a specialist health professional should be consulted.
Things the Patient Should Pay Attention to and Do Before an Abortion
Abortion is a surgical procedure that carries low risks when performed by a properly sterile and specialized team. However, there are certain precautions patients should take before undergoing the procedure.
- Before the abortion surgery, the appropriate type of anesthesia must be accurately determined. If sedation is used, patients should refrain from eating and drinking for 4-6 hours before the surgery.
- If you are a smoker, you should avoid smoking for at least 4-6 hours before surgery.
- When coming to the surgery center, it may be a good idea to come with a companion, preferably one who will assist you.
- It is important to know your blood type before surgery, as blood type information may be needed.
- If you are taking blood thinners, you should discuss with your doctor before surgery whether you will continue taking your medications as prescribed.
To ensure the best outcome for your abortion and to protect your health, you must strictly follow the instructions recommended by your doctor.
What Should Be Done After Abortion?
There are some precautions and points to consider after an abortion:
- Required appointment : You don't need to schedule an appointment after a medical or surgical abortion. However, you can take a pregnancy test to confirm that the pregnancy has ended.
- Nausea and diarrhea : Especially after a medical abortion, you may experience symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea due to the effects of the medications. If this is normal, don't worry. Surgical abortion, however, can cause some side effects due to the anesthesia.
- Pain and discomfort: You may experience mild pain or discomfort after the abortion. You can use medications such as painkillers as recommended by your doctor.
- Bleeding: If you experience light bleeding, you can use a sanitary pad. However, if you experience excessive bleeding or severe pain, you should consult your doctor immediately.
- Sexual intercourse and birth control: If you want to have sexual intercourse, you should use birth control to prevent pregnancy. Your doctor will help you with this.
If you feel that your condition is not normal after the abortion or if you experience any signs of complications, you should contact your doctor immediately. Otherwise, you can return to your daily routine once you feel better.
Does Abortion Prevent Pregnancy?
An abortion is generally not an obstacle to pregnancy. It can be used to end an unwanted pregnancy or to terminate a pregnancy for medical reasons. However, it's important to remember that abortion is intended to end the pregnancy and does not prevent pregnancy during this process.
During the post -abortion recovery period, a one-week rest period is generally recommended, after which intercourse is recommended. Regarding the ovulation cycle, the first ovulation period after an abortion can usually begin within 20 days.
However, women who have unprotected sex during ovulation after an abortion can become pregnant again during their first ovulation. The first menstrual period usually occurs four weeks after an abortion . Excessively frequent abortions can cause health problems and make it difficult to conceive.
The risks and effects of abortion depend heavily on the experience of the doctor performing the procedure and the attention to detail. When vacuum abortion is performed by experienced healthcare professionals using single-use instruments under sterile conditions, risks can generally be minimized.
It's important to remember that pregnancy is possible after an abortion . It's important to be careful not to damage the uterus during this process. By following the guidance of a specialist gynecologist and obstetrician, you can expect your uterine function and chances of pregnancy to remain unaffected in the coming years. Regular checkups with your doctor are also important during this process. However, in all cases, it's best to consult a specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
2025 Abortion Prices and Information
Abortion services at Ankara Magnet Hospital vary in price depending on the week of pregnancy and the type of anesthesia chosen. For more detailed information and current pricing, please contact us by calling our contact numbers. Abortion prices are subject to change based on procedures performed in 2025. Prices may vary, particularly for procedures performed after seven weeks of pregnancy.
After the abortion , you can quickly return to your normal life. At our clinic, abortion is performed using ultrasound guidance, a controlled, sterile, and trouble-free vacuum method.
Our abortion services throughout Ankara are offered with utmost confidence. We'd like to inform you about 2025 abortion prices in Ankara. Please note that abortion prices may vary depending on your choice of hospital or clinic.
Getting Information About Abortion
Please do not hesitate to call us at 0312 212 80 80 to receive information while your identity is kept confidential.
Is Abortion Forbidden?
Abortion in Turkey: On May 27, 1983, the "Population Planning Law" No. 2827 was enacted, and abortion became a legal practice in Turkey, subject to specific rules. Abortion is optional for pregnancies up to 10 weeks.
How Many Minutes Does an Abortion Take to Complete?
The pregnancy termination process takes about 10-15 minutes.
Can a 1-Week-Old Baby Be Aborted?
Abortion can also be performed in the first week of pregnancy.
Can a 16-Week-Old Baby Be Aborted?
If the mother's life and health are at risk, abortion can be performed by the board's decision, regardless of the week of pregnancy.
Is Abortion Painful?
This procedure is mostly performed with sedation anesthesia, which we call superficial anesthesia, and no pain is felt.
What is Abortion on Demand?
If the pregnancy is in the first 10 weeks, the pregnancy can be terminated with the woman's request and consent.
What are the reasons for forced abortion?
- In any situation that threatens the woman's health and life due to pregnancy, in case of life-threatening bleeding, in case the baby is dead, regardless of the gestational week, the pregnancy is terminated.
Does Abortion Affect Fertility?
Abortion performed by experts and in a suitable environment does not prevent future motherhood.
Can Abortion Be Performed After Miscarriage?
When pregnancy occurs, the placenta, the fluid sac that contains the baby, also forms. In some miscarriages, these structures may remain inside. A post-miscarriage ultrasound examines the uterus to check for any remaining fetal tissue. If any fetal tissue remains after the miscarriage, an abortion should be performed.
Psychological Status After Abortion
After an abortion, women may experience a variety of emotions and be faced with many questions. These may include sadness, anxiety, guilt, and sometimes even regret. If these feelings are unbearable, professional support should be sought.
What Should Post-Abortion Care Be Like? What Should You Pay Attention to?
There's a risk of infection after an abortion . To prevent this, you should shower standing for 15 days, avoid swimming in the sea or pool, and adhere to vaginal intercourse restrictions. A birth control method should be chosen, medications recommended by your doctor should be used with caution, and you should rest for a day or two. You should return to your doctor for a checkup after one week.
Post-Abortion Infection Symptoms
- Fever of 38 degrees and above, bleeding and heavy spotting, pain in the groin area, odor and color changes in the discharge
What Are the Long-Term Health Effects of Abortion?
When the abortion procedure is performed by experienced and expert physicians and is well monitored, it does not cause any permanent illness or problems.
What is Vacuum Curettage?
This is the most commonly used and least risky method for abortion . It involves inserting a plastic syringe and a thin cannula into the uterus and applying suction.
When Should An Abortion Be Performed?
Obstetricians and gynecologists generally recommend that abortions be performed between 5 and 7 weeks of gestation. Abortions can be performed up to 10 weeks.
Legal Abortion Week
Women have the right to have an abortion at their own request within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, regardless of marital status . According to Article 99 of the Turkish Penal Code, abortion is permitted up to the 20th week in cases of pregnancies resulting from rape.
In What Situations Is Abortion Performed?
Abortion is performed at the woman's request up to 10 weeks of pregnancy. Additionally, abortion can be performed with a doctor's recommendation and the woman's consent in cases such as heart disease, lung disease, cancer, severe hypertension, serious chronic illnesses, and preeclampsia (preeclampsia).
How Long Does an Abortion Last?
A curettage performed under superficial anesthesia usually takes 10-15 minutes.
Birth Control and Abortion
Birth control is the use of devices or medications to prevent pregnancy. After an abortion, you can have an intrauterine device (IUD) inserted or use birth control pills. For more information about other birth control methods, please contact your doctor.
Use of Birth Control Pills After Abortion
After an abortion, you should protect yourself from pregnancy again and start using it as soon as the first day of your first menstrual period.
Post-Abortion Bleeding
Light bleeding and spotting after an abortion can last 7-10 days. If the bleeding is light or heavy, consult a doctor.
What the Patient Should Do Before an Abortion
Before the abortion, the patient must be adequately informed. An examination, tests, and checkups should be performed, the gestational age should be determined, and the abortion method should be discussed. Because the patient will receive a superficial anesthetic, they must be fasting and thirsty for 4-6 hours. If the woman is married, her husband's consent and signature must be obtained. Women over the age of 18 can have the procedure with their own signature. Women under the age of 18 must obtain family consent for the abortion.
What are the risks of abortion?
Although very rare, the most serious risks include retained material, infection, and uterine perforation. It's normal to experience some light bleeding and groin pain after the procedure.
Can a 2-Week-Old Baby Have an Abortion?
While the 5th to 7th weeks of pregnancy are ideal for an abortion , it can be performed in the first weeks of pregnancy. Abortions are generally performed up to 10 weeks.
Can a 14-Week-Old Baby Have an Abortion?
Due to legal regulations, abortion can be performed within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. In our country, abortion is prohibited in pregnancies beyond 10 weeks.
Is Spousal Permission and Consent Required for Abortion?
Any married woman over the age of 18 can have an abortion with her spouse's permission. Single women can have the procedure with their own consent up to the 10th week of pregnancy.
Will It Be Understood That I Had an Abortion?
It's never known that an abortion was performed until after a period appears . Beta-HCG levels, a pregnancy indicator, begin to drop after the abortion, but blood levels can still remain at a certain level for up to 30 days.
Are Families Notified of Abortion?
Under Article 6/3 of Law No. 698 on the Protection of Personal Data, patient information and examinations are not disclosed to anyone other than the patient. No examination or intervention can be performed on individuals under the age of 18 without the consent of their parents.
Is Medication Abortion Possible?
Some medications, known as abortive pills, that cause the uterus to contract are illegal to self-administer. These medications can be used under the supervision of a physician in some cases. These medications cause uterine contractions, which expel the pregnancy material.
Post-Abortion Medication Use and Control
Your doctor may prescribe painkillers and, if necessary, antibiotics after the procedure. You may be called for a follow-up appointment within 10 days. Depending on your condition, your doctor may request tests and ultrasounds during the follow-up visit.
After How Many Months Can Abortion Not Be Performed?
The exact week of pregnancy is determined by ultrasound. The week of pregnancy is not considered when terminating a life-threatening pregnancy.
Abortion in a State Hospital
You have the right to have an abortion at your own discretion within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, regardless of marital status. According to Article 99 of the Turkish Penal Code, abortion is permitted up to the 20th week in pregnancies resulting from rape. The type of anesthesia (local or sedation) administered may vary depending on the hospital's policies and the woman's health condition.
Reasons for Abortion Other Than Pregnancy Termination
In some cases, it may be necessary to obtain a sample from the uterus for diagnosis. These conditions can cause excessive bleeding and changes in the uterine lining. In some cases, a curettage may be necessary to stop the bleeding.
Why Should Abortion Be Performed in a Hospital Setting?
Abortion should be performed in a hygienic operating room with a specialized team. This procedure carries risks associated with surgery, and ultrasound and blood tests should be performed beforehand. Although it is a short procedure, it is important to have it performed in a healthcare facility that provides 24/7 support to mitigate potential risks and complications.
How Do I Find a Good Abortion Doctor?
Many healthcare institutions in Ankara have experienced doctors who perform abortions. At Private Magnet Hospital, our obstetrician and gynecologist performs abortions under sterile conditions, using a sedative, within 15-30 minutes. For more information, please call 0312 212 80 80.
What are the Signs of a Failed Abortion?
Uncomfortable and persistent cramping and pain in the abdomen and groin, bleeding exceeding 20 days, fever, fatigue, and changes in vaginal discharge are signs of an unsuccessful abortion.
What Happens to a Baby Aborted?
At 7 weeks pregnant, the average size is 1.5-2 cm, while at 10 weeks pregnant, the baby is approximately 3 cm long. There is no visible pregnancy. Therefore, during the abortion procedure, the fetus enters the vacuum syringe as a clotted fluid and is sent to the medical waste disposal unit in special transport bags.
Is Abortion Harmful in First Pregnancy?
This is one of the concerns of those considering abortion for their first pregnancy . Whether the abortion is performed for the first or subsequent pregnancies makes no difference in terms of risks and complications.
February, 2025