Surgical Abortion

• Surgical abortion involves having a minor operation under general anaesthetic.
• In Lothian, a surgical abortion can currently be provided up to 12 weeks gestation (very occasionally it can be done up to 13 weeks).
• You will have to have a scan if you choose a surgical abortion.
• After your scan you will be provided with an appointment to attend hospital, to a day surgery unit
• Under general anaesthetic the pregnancy is removed using gentle suction. You will require a medication an hour before your operation to help make the operation easier.
• Once you wake up, normally you can go home on the same day.
• You can still expect bleeding after a surgical abortion, lasting for a few days.
• The patient information leaflet gives more information about surgical termination of pregnancy.