Therapeutic abortion
There are different types of surgical abortions, performed at different times during pregnancy. Aspiration or vacuum abortion is the most common method and can be performed within the first 15 weeks of pregnancy. Manual vacuum aspiration involves using a manual syringe to remove the fetus through suction. Electric vacuum aspiration involves using an electric pump to remove the fetus. Dilation and evacuation can be performed between 15 and 18 weeks and involves the use of suction and surgical instruments to open and empty the cervix. Dilation and curettage (D&C) involves emptying the uterus using an instrument called a curette. Later in pregnancy, surgical abortion requires the use of other riskie and more controversial procedures.