Considering Surgical Abortion? Get the Facts First.

Before reaching out to an abortion clinic, it’s important to understand the types of surgical abortion procedures and when they can be performed. 

This knowledge equips you to make a well-informed decision about your next steps. Keep reading to learn more about first-trimester abortions, second-trimester abortions, and what to expect!  

First-Trimester Abortion Procedures  

The first trimester spans from conception to the end of week 13. During this period, abortion providers typically offer medical abortions and dilation and curettage (D&C) procedures. 

A woman with a pill and a glass of water in hand

What Is a Medical Abortion?  

A medical abortion, commonly known as the abortion pill, uses two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol. It’s FDA-approved for use up to 10 weeks of pregnancy.[1]  

The first medication, mifepristone, interferes with progesterone receptors and prevents the pregnancy from developing. The second medication, misoprostol, causes the uterus to cramp and expel the pregnancy.[2]

Mifepristone is usually taken in an abortion clinic, while misoprostol is taken 24 to 48 hours later at home.[3] The bleeding and cramping will begin between 2 to 24 hours after taking misoprostol.[4] Most women expel the pregnancy within that same timeframe.[5]

The experience can feel like a heavy period, though intensity varies. Recovery often involves rest and over-the-counter pain relief, but follow-up care may be needed if bleeding persists.  

A woman drinking coffee and looking out the window

What Is Dilation and Curettage (D&C)?  

A dilation and curettage (D&C), also called vacuum aspiration abortion, is a surgical abortion available up to 13 weeks of pregnancy.[6] It’s often completed in under 30 minutes.  

Hours before or the day before the procedure, small instruments or a medication is used to open (dilate) the cervix. Misoprostol may be given to soften the cervix.[7]

During the procedure, the abortion provider will use a spoon-shaped device called a curette to scrape out the tissue from the uterus. They may also use a suction device at the end to remove any remaining tissue that was missed by the curette.[8]  

Second-Trimester Abortion Procedures  

The second trimester runs from week 13 to week 27. During this stage, dilation and evacuation (D&E) becomes the standard procedure due to the pregnancy’s advanced development.  

What Is Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)?  

A dilation and evacuation (D&E) is a surgical abortion most often performed in the second trimester.[9] It’s more complex than a D&C due to the fetus’s size and requires skilled providers.  

Here’s how a dilation and evacuation works:

  • Cervix Dilation: The day before, sponge-like sticks (laminaria) are inserted into the cervix, absorbing moisture to expand and open it gradually. Medication may also be used overnight to soften the cervix.[10]  
  • Procedure: A cannula suctions out uterine contents, and forceps remove remaining tissue.[11]  

After the procedure, you may experience cramping and bleeding for up to two weeks, with a follow-up visit to ensure everything is complete. 

Considering Abortion? Get a Mobile Ultrasound First.

At ICU Mobile, we understand that facing an unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming. We’re here to provide you with the facts about surgical abortion and guide you through every step of the process. 

We provide mobile ultrasounds in our mobile medical units. Our services are confidential, free of charge, and designed to help you make the best decision for your health and future. 

Give us a call at (877) 231-2005 or schedule your appointment online today. 

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Please be aware that ICU Mobile does not provide or refer for abortion services. 

Sources

  1. FDA. (2025, February 11). Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation?sm_guid=NTU1NzgyfDYzMDE1OTM2fC0xfGppbUBha2ZhbWlseS5vcmd8NTY4OTI4MXx8MHwwfDE5OTYwMDk4OHwxMDg2fDB8MHx8NTQ3NzI2fDA1
  2. See source #1.
  3. See source #1.
  4. U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2024, November 15). Mifepristone (Mifeprex). MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a600042.html 
  5. Mifepristone (oral route). Mayo Clinic. (2025, February 1). https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/mifepristone-oral-route/description/drg-20067123 
  6. Cleveland Clinic. (2024, February 9). Dilation and Curettage (D & C). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/dilation-and-curettage 
  7. Mayo Clinic. (2023, November 7). Dilation and curettage (D&C). https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dilation-and-curettage/about/pac-20384910
  8. See source #7.
  9. Understanding Dilation and Evacuation (D&E). Saint Luke’s Health System. (n.d.). https://www.saintlukeskc.org/health-library/understanding-dilation-and-evacuation-de
  10. See source #9.
  11. See source #9.

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