What is a surgical termination?
A surgical termination is performed by suction where no cutting is involved. It is called surgical because it takes place in an operating theatre. This is in the Main Theatres at West Middlesex University Hospital.
A suction termination of pregnancy (STOP) is performed under general anaesthetic which means you will be asleep during the procedure. A suction abortion involves one visit to the hospital.
You may receive a tablet/s to be inserted into the vagina to relax and soften the neck of the womb. When you are asleep a thin tube is passed through the neck of the womb and the contents carefully removed by suction.
You may have a coil or contraceptive injection inserted under the anaesthetic if you have consented to this. While you are asleep you will be given a painkiller that will be effective when you wake up. The whole procedure takes only a few minutes, however, you must expect to be at the day surgery all morning/ afternoon.
If you chose a surgical termination
To prepare for the operation you MUST NOT eat or drink for 6 hours prior to the operation. If you are due to have an afternoon operation this means you should not eat or drink after 8am. These restrictions include sweets, chewing gum and water. It is important you follow these instructions as your operation may be cancelled if you do not.
- Please bath or shower on the morning of your operation and do not wear make-up, nail varnish, nail extensions, metal jewellery including body piercings.
- You can bring a dressing gown, slippers and toothbrush and toothpaste. Please bring your own sanitary towels.
- Please do not bring valuables as there are no facilities for storage and the trust cannot accept responsibility for any loss. There are lockable lockers where you can leave a few items.
You will require someone over 18 to escort you home and we advise you do not travel on public transport. They must come to the Day Surgery Unit at the stipulated time told to you by the nurses.
This is usually 4 hours after your operation although we cannot be specific about the time as it depends on how you react to the anaesthetic and operation. Occasionally it may be necessary to admit people to the ward overnight. Please bring a book or magazine or something to occupy your time.
When you arrive please report to the reception area of the Day Surgery Unit on the 1st Floor of West Middlesex University Hospital (Main Building). This is separate to the clinic where you came in for the consultation at the given date and time.
If you are unable to attend for ANY reason please ring us on the direction line 02083215008 / 5005 / 5889. If you have any questions including if you are ill whether you should cancel your operation, please call on the number above and ask to speak to a nurse in charge.
A registered nurse will be responsible for your care throughout your stay in the Day Surgery Unit. If you have any questions or concerns you should direct them to her/him.
The named nurse will direct you to an area to change and indicate where the toilets are. Before the operation you will see (a number of people including) a nurse, anaesthetist and surgeon. You will:
- Be asked questions about your health and previous operations
- Have your pulse and blood pressure taken
- Be asked to remove any jewellery and be given an identity bracelet and special cotton gown to wear
- Be asked to remove contact lenses
Please ask if you have questions.
What happens after the surgical termination?
Immediately after the surgical termination you are taken to recovery. A nurse will be with you. You may feel drowsy, sick and sore. If you do, please inform the nurse as they may be able to give you some medication. When you are awake and your pulse and blood pressure are stable, you will be moved to a waiting room to rest. The nurse will then discuss with you when you are ready to go when your escort has arrived.
If your blood group is rhesus negative you will need an antiD injection.
There is no evidence to suggest that a termination of pregnancy affects your future fertility. However if you develop an infection that is not treated quickly this may affect fertility and therefore it is important that you complete your antibiotics and seek help if you have any signs of infection from your GP or A & E.
You can get pregnant again very quickly after a termination therefore you must start using contraception immediately and condoms with a new partner.
If you need any contraception or a sick note please let the nurse or doctor know BEFORE the operation.
An adult will need to take you home in a car or taxi. You may feel the effects of the anaesthetic for up to 24 hours and therefore should NOT:
- Drive a car or bicycle
- Operate machinery
- Drink alcohol or take sleeping tablets
- Make important decisions or sign any legal documents
We advise you rest the night of your operation and do not go to work the day after the operation.
Most women bleed for up to a week or two after a surgical termination. As the cervix (neck of the womb) has been open, it is best not to use tampons or have sexual intercourse for 2 weeks as there an increased risk of infection.
It is difficult to predict how women will feel emotionally after the termination, for some women they may feel very sad, for others a sense of relief. If you have any feelings of desperation, contact your GP or 02083215008 / 5005 and we may be able to arrange counselling for you.