The abortion generally takes 5-15 minutes. The cervix is stretched slowly for several hours before the abortion is performed. For patients 18 weeks or more, this dilation occurs overnight and the abortion is performed the following morning. Information about local motels is available. Anesthesia Options Three options are available for pain relief.
All patients receive local anesthetic.
Sedation and anesthesia are offered at additional cost. This is an injection of lidocaine into the cervix. Lidocaine is a medication similar to novocain, used by dentists. Ibuprofin may be given prior to the procedure upon request. This is an IV injection that helps the patient relax and reduces the intensity of the pain.