The contents are then removed using a similar procedure to vacuum aspiration but due to later gestation period, it may be necessary to assist the contents removal with use of surgical equipment. The surgeon will be able to tell when the abortion is complete. Under 'Late Medical Induction' one or two nights are spent in the Clinic. Under Medical Induction the drug prostaglandin is used to soften the cervix and to make the uterus contract. Following treatment there may be some after pain for about an hour or so, and bleeding for 5 to 145 days.
Most women are able to go home six to twelve hours after the abortion.
Two Stage Procedure Treatment to end pregnancy by 'Two Stage Procedure' requires 2 separate general anaesthetic and 2 nights in the clinic. Sometimes a pessary containing prostaglandin is placed in the vagina before the first anaesthetic to make the cervix more stretchable. The treatment during the first anaesthetic starts a slow natural process that often softens the cervix and the tissues of the pregnancy. This makes the abortion the next day more gentle and complications less likely. Early the next day the patient can go home as long as they are feeling well.