Vacuum aspiration

A medical procedure for abortion and uterine evacuation

Vacuum aspiration, also known as suction aspiration or suction curettage, is a medical procedure used to remove the contents of the uterus. It is commonly used for induced abortion, as well as for miscarriage management and uterine evacuation in cases of molar pregnancy.

Procedure

Vacuum aspiration involves the use of a suction device to remove uterine contents. The procedure can be performed using either a manual or an electric suction device.

Manual Vacuum Aspiration (MVA)

File:Manual vacuum aspiration device.jpg

A manual vacuum aspiration device

Manual vacuum aspiration is typically performed using a handheld syringe that creates a vacuum. This method is often used in early pregnancy and is favored for its simplicity and low cost. The procedure involves the insertion of a cannula through the cervix into the uterus, followed by the application of suction to evacuate the uterine contents.

Electric Vacuum Aspiration (EVA)

Electric vacuum aspiration uses an electric pump to create suction. This method is generally used for later stages of pregnancy or when a larger volume of uterine contents needs to be removed. The procedure is similar to MVA but involves the use of an electric suction machine.

Indications

Vacuum aspiration is indicated for several medical conditions, including:

• Induced abortion in the first trimester
• Management of incomplete abortion or miscarriage
• Treatment of molar pregnancy
• Removal of retained placental tissue after childbirth

Advantages

Vacuum aspiration is a safe and effective procedure with several advantages:

• It is less invasive than surgical methods such as dilation and curettage (D&C).
• The procedure is quick, often taking less than 15 minutes.
• It can be performed in an outpatient setting.
• Recovery time is generally short, with most patients resuming normal activities within a day or two.

Risks and Complications

While vacuum aspiration is generally safe, it carries some risks and potential complications, including:

• Infection
• Hemorrhage
• Uterine perforation
• Cervical injury
• Incomplete evacuation requiring further intervention

Aftercare

After the procedure, patients are typically monitored for a short period before being discharged. They are advised to avoid inserting anything into the vagina, such as tampons or douching, for at least two weeks to reduce the risk of infection. Follow-up appointments are usually scheduled to ensure complete recovery and to address any complications.

Related pages

• Induced abortion
• Miscarriage
• Dilation and curettage
• Molar pregnancy