Instillation abortion

Instillation abortion is a method of abortion that involves the use of chemicals or other substances introduced into the uterus to terminate a pregnancy. This method is typically used in the second trimester of pregnancy, after the 16th week of gestation.

Procedure

The procedure for an instillation abortion involves the injection of a solution, typically a saline or prostaglandin solution, into the amniotic sac. The solution induces uterine contractions which expel the fetus. The procedure can take several hours to a few days to complete.

Types of Instillation Abortion

There are two main types of instillation abortion: saline abortion and prostaglandin abortion.

Saline Abortion

In a saline abortion, a solution of concentrated salt is injected into the amniotic sac. The fetus swallows the saline solution and is poisoned by it. The high salt concentration also causes severe dehydration in the fetus. The uterus then contracts to expel the fetus.

Prostaglandin Abortion

In a prostaglandin abortion, a hormone-like compound called prostaglandin is injected into the amniotic sac. This causes the uterus to contract and expel the fetus.

Risks and Complications

Like all medical procedures, instillation abortions carry some risks and potential complications. These can include infection, heavy bleeding, and damage to the cervix or uterus. There is also the risk of an incomplete abortion, in which some fetal or placental tissue remains in the uterus.

Legal and Ethical Issues

Instillation abortions have been the subject of legal and ethical debates. Some people believe that the procedure is inhumane due to the pain and suffering it can cause to the fetus. Others argue that women should have the right to choose what happens to their bodies, including the decision to have an abortion.

See Also

• Abortion
• Saline abortion
• Prostaglandin abortion
• Uterine contractions
• Pregnancy