Category: D&C (Dilation and Curettage), D&E (Dilation and Evacuation), Vacuum Aspiration

These are specific types of surgical abortion procedures. Vacuum Aspiration (also known as Suction Aspiration) is the most common method for early surgical abortions, using gentle suction to remove pregnancy tissue. Dilation and Curettage (D&C) involves dilating the cervix and gently scraping the uterine lining to remove tissue, though for abortion, it has largely been replaced by vacuum aspiration. Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) is typically used for later-term abortions and involves dilation of the cervix and removal of tissue using both suction and instruments. In South Africa, these procedures are performed in accredited facilities by qualified medical personnel.