V. Procedures you need to know about now

Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022, the legality and safety of obtaining these procedures has been of great concern. Prior to the ruling, women were guaranteed the legal right to an abortion nationwide. Now, some states have restricted access. So, depending upon where you live, you might meet with some new and unexpected restrictions and challenges. If you are a woman in need of these services, reach out to your health care provider to understand your options including access, availability, methods and privacy/legal rights. There are various procedures that are legal, safe and available in select states. Here are (five) V.

i. Medical termination

This can be performed for an early miscarriage or elective termination of an undesired pregnancy (less than 12 weeks) under medical supervision. It involves taking pills, either mifepristone, misoprostol or a combination of the two. These medications stop the growth and development of the pregnancy and cause the uterus to empty causing the pregnancy to end. Side effects can include heavy bleeding, cramps, infection and an incomplete emptying of the uterine which may then require a surgical intervention. 

ii. Surgical termination (less than 16 weeks)

A surgical intervention is a same day procedure performed in a clinical setting by a trained professional. When the pregnancy is less than 16 weeks it is performed by a vacuum aspiration. A suction device is inserted into the uterine cavity after dilation of the cervix. The procedure typically takes 10-15 minutes. Cramps and bleeding are the most common complaints; usually antibiotics are administered to prevent an infection.

iii. Surgical termination (more than 16 weeks)                                   For pregnancies that are greater than 16 weeks, a D and E (dilation and evacuation) is performed which uses aspiration as well as curettage, or scraping, to remove the  contents within the uterine cavity. Prior to the procedure, either medical or mechanical dilation is used to help dilate the cervix so that there is less trauma to the maternal organs. This procedure takes a bit longer and has slightly increased risk of bleeding, pain and infection.

iv. Late term induction 

If the pregnancy has failed to progress in the second trimester or later because of fetal anomalies or fetal demise, the family may request an autopsy to diagnose what occurred. By inducing labor, the fetus is delivered intact which may make a pathologic diagnosis easier.

 v. Abortion today

The legality of abortion varies from state to state since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. Some states have created limited access and other states have required restrictions and counseling. Reach out to your trusted health care provider for guidance on any/all abortion or termination questions and options. In addition, experiencing any type of stigma or judgement can impact mental and emotional well-being when facing an already difficult situation. Your health care provider may refer/suggest additional emotional support if needed.

 Verbena does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and is not a medical provider. Discuss all/any pregnancy termination issues, questions or concerns with your personal doctor.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.