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Facts about Uterine Aspiration

First, the doctor will go over your medical history and perform a pelvic exam. The doctor may perform a vaginal ultrasound.  The doctor will place a speculum in the vagina, and wash the cervix with iodine soap.  Please tell us if you have any allergies to iodine.  The doctor will inject a local anesthetic into the cervix.  This will make the procedure more comfortable.

 

The next step is to dilate the opening of the cervix.  When the cervix is opened wide enough, a small sterile, plastic tube is inserted into the uterus.  It is connected to a suction device.  The tube is moved inside of the uterus with gentle suction for 3-5 minutes to remove all of the pregnancy tissue.  During and after the procedure, you may feel cramping as the uterus shrinks down to normal size. 

 

After the Aspiration

 

You will remain in the clinic for about 30 minutes.  We want to watch you for any problems.

 

If You Are Having IV Sedation

  • You should have nothing to eat or drink for 6 hours before your procedure.
  • You should fill all the prescriptions the doctor gave you before your procedure
  • Doxycycline is an antibiotic.  Take the first dose 1 hour before the procedure.  Take 1 tablet by mouth twice a day for five days.  Be sure to take all of these pills.
  • Motrin® is used for pain after the procedure.

 

If You Are NOT Having IV Sedation

  • You may eat a light meal up to 2 hours before your procedure.
  • You should fill all the prescriptions the doctor gave you before your procedure.
  • Doxycycline is an antibiotic.  Take the first dose 1 hour before the procedure.  Take 1 tablet by mouth twice a day for five days.  Be sure to take all of these pills.
  • Motrin® is used for pain.  You should take 1 Motrin® (600mg) ½ hour before you arrive.
  • Ativan® is an anti-anxiety medicine.  Bring it with you to your visit, the nurse will tell you when to take it.  

 

Important:  If you take Ativan® or have IV sedation, you MUST have a responsible adult bring you to the clinic and drive you home.  Please bring all the papers your health care provider gave you to the clinic.  Please read all pharmacy handouts.

 

University of Wisconsin

Women’s Endocrine Clinic

Madison WI

608-265-0300

Fax 608-262-7111



The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 04/03/2009

Copyright © 04/03/2009 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. UWH #6882

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