Suction Aspiration - also known as Vacuum Aspiration

Approximately 88% of abortions in the United States occur in the first 12 weeks (first trimester) of pregnancy.

The Suction Aspiration procedure is the most common abortion performed between 6 and 15 weeks of pregnancy.

At the start of the procedure, the woman's cervix is manually dilated by cone shaped rods. Once the cervix has been dilated to the necessary width, a cannula (hollow plastic tube connected by a hose to a suction machine) is inserted into the uterus.

The abortionist uses the long sharp tip of the cannula to scrape the walls of the uterus, dislodging the fetus and placenta. The baby, placenta, and amniotic fluid are sucked through the cannula into a collection jar, killing the baby in the process. The contents of the jar are examined to ensure that the all body parts and placenta have been removed from the woman's uterus.

Complications: Incomplete abortion is a common complication, especially if the procedure is rushed. Another complication happens when the abortionist moves too far into the womb and perforates the uterus or even the bowel. Surgery may be required to repair such an injury.

Dilation and Curettage (D&C)

The D&C procedure is similar to the Suction Aspiration procedure, with the added use of a curette - a long steel instrument with sharp grooves.

Following dilation of the cervix, a curette is inserted into the uterus and used to scrape the lining of the uterus, dislodging the fetus and placenta. The baby is then removed, followed by the placenta. A cannula/suction machine is sometimes used during the procedure to ensure complete removal of the body parts.

Complications: One of the complications of this procedure is an incomplete abortion. The mother must return to have the rest of the parts removed or suffer infection.

Alan Guttmacher Institute (research arm of Planned Parenthood):
Facts on Induced Abortion in the United States

American Pregnancy Association: Surgical Abortion Procedures

Planned Parenthood: Abortion Procedures