In the first trimester of pregnancy, you will most likely have two options for termination. One option is a procedural abortion, called a dilation & curettage (D&C), which can be performed in the office. The second option is a medication abortion, which is completed at home.
How do I choose between a D&C and a medication abortion?
The choice between a medication abortion and a D&C is mostly a personal decision. Below are the differences between the two options.
Visiting the Clinic
We are located in the Duchossois Center for Advanced Medicine (DCAM) at 5758 S. Maryland Avenue, on the 3rd floor, unit 3H. Tell the coordinator at the front desk that you’re checking in for the Complex Family Planning.
Your Procedure
First Trimester Patient Information
You will have an ultrasound, consultation with a medical provider, and procedure all in one day.
Wear comfortable clothes.
For procedures in the operating room
Procedures performed in the operating room usually require two visits: one in the clinic and one in the operating room.
You must have a ride (a driver other than yourself) only on the 2nd visit.
Medication vs. Procedural Abortion
Medication Abortion: This process takes place in the privacy of your own home. Medication abortion is available for pregnancies in the first trimester and requires follow-up, either in person or at home. The first visit includes ultrasound, counseling, and obtaining medications that will cause the pregnancy to pass without surgery, much like having a miscarriage. The second visit is one to two weeks later for an ultrasound to ensure the process was successful or through a follow-up phone call.
Procedural Abortion: This procedure is completed in a single visit in the first trimester and two visits after the first trimester. The procedure normally takes about five to 15 minutes, but expect to spend more time in the clinic for ultrasound, counseling, and recovery. While most procedures can be completed in the clinic, some may be performed in the operating room.
Medication Abortion
D&C
Requires no surgery
Potential for greater privacy
People report it being "like a miscarriage" or it "feeling more natural"
Expect to have heavy bleeding at home
The patient needs to return to the clinic to ensure the procedure was successful
Some women experience other side effects, such as nausea or fever from the medications
It requires fewer office visits
The procedure time is very short
Women do not have heavy bleeding at home
Has the risks of all surgical procedures (bleeding, infection, damage to surrounding organs)
What is a D&C?
A D&C is a simple procedure used for the termination of pregnancy. It can be safely completed in the office in the first trimester. During the procedure, the doctor will gently open the cervix and remove the pregnancy using gentle suction. The whole procedure lasts about 10-15 minutes.
Anesthesia options:
You can have your procedure in our clinic while awake, using oral pain medications and numbing medicine in the cervix. We also have the option of moderate sedation so that you can be asleep during the procedure.
Can I get birth control during my visit?
Your healthcare provider will discuss all your birth control options with you at the time of your visit. Some options related to your insurance coverage may be limited.
An abortion can be completed safely using medications. The process begins in the office and will finish when you are at home. The process will be like having a miscarriage at home.
Will I experience pain?
During the heaviest part of the bleeding, you will experience cramping that will feel like strong period cramps. You will be given a prescription for pain medication that you can take at home to help control the pain.
Do I need to come back?
To ensure that the pregnancy has passed, you will need to return to the office 1-2 weeks after your first visit so that you may have an ultrasound. You also have the option to complete a telephone follow-up that includes taking a home pregnancy test or returning for an ultrasound.
Can I get birth control during my visit?
Your healthcare provider will discuss all your birth control options with you at the time of your visit. Some options related to your insurance coverage may be limited. Some options may require another visit to start that method.
Is abortion safe?
No matter what option you choose for your abortion, modern-day abortions are safe and effective. Millions of pregnant people undergo abortion in the United States each year. The complication rate for patients undergoing an abortion is very low, and the risk of serious complications is much less than that of childbirth.
Can I bring someone with me to my clinic appointment?
Yes, you can bring a support person with you to the appointment. We do ask that no children be brought to appointments.
Can I eat and drink before my appointment?
You may eat and drink normally before your appointment. If you are undergoing any additional procedures or a procedure on another day, the doctor will give you instructions about eating and drinking.
