@ex.plain.it1: Surgical abortions use medical tools and suction to empty the uterus and are performed in a clinic or hospital setting. They can be used in the first and second trimesters. First Trimester (Suction Aspiration): This is the most common type of in-clinic abortion. The procedure involves: The patient rests on an exam table, and a speculum is used to see the cervix. Numbing medication (local anesthetic) is given, and the cervix is gently dilated (opened) with small rods. A thin tube is inserted into the uterus, and gentle suction is used to remove the pregnancy tissue. The procedure is quick, typically lasting about 5-10 minutes. Second Trimester (Dilation and Evacuation or D&E): This procedure is done later in pregnancy, generally after 14-16 weeks. The cervix is prepared for dilation, sometimes using medication or special absorbent sticks (laminaria) placed the day before to help it gradually open. The procedure uses a combination of suction and specialized medical instruments (forceps) to remove the pregnancy.