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Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)

Table of Contents

Surgery Overview

Dilation and evacuation (D&E) is a type of in-clinic abortion that can be done in the second trimester of pregnancy. It is usually done with vacuum aspiration. Sometimes surgical tools may also be used. Before the procedure, medicines can be given to reduce pain and help you relax.

An ultrasound is done before a D&E to check the number of weeks of the pregnancy. Ultrasound may also be used during the D&E to confirm that all of the tissue has been removed.

A D&E is often done in a clinic. It can also be done in a hospital. The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes. But you may be in the clinic or hospital for a few hours.

What To Expect

D&E is a medical procedure. A normal recovery includes:

After the procedure:

Why It Is Done

D&E is one method available for a second-trimester abortion. It may be done because of a severe medical problem or to remove tissue that remains after a miscarriage. It may also be done if you couldn't get an abortion earlier in pregnancy.

How Well It Works

D&E is an effective method of abortion in the second trimester of pregnancy. It is also an effective way to remove tissue that remains after a miscarriage.

Risks

D&E rarely causes any problems. But the risk of problems is higher for abortions done in the second trimester than for those done in the first trimester. Possible problems include:

Credits for Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)

Current as of: November 27, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
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