Surgical Abortion is a safe procedure available for First and Second Trimester patients.
Surgical Abortion is a safe procedure available for First and Second Trimester patients.
Surgical Abortion is a safe procedure available for First and Second Trimester patients.
You can get a surgical abortion up to 23 weeks and 6 days in pregnancy.
The procedure typically takes 5 – 10 minutes depending on how far along you are. It can be performed while awake, with Valium, or with light or full sedation.
They reassured me that this facility is all about helping people and providing the best possible care. I was scared and apprehensive because I thought abortion would hurt my body, but the staff answered all of my questions thoroughly, without judgment. I was concerned about paying, but the center followed up with me and ensured everything would be taken care of. It was an adventure to get to Pittsburgh – I took a bus, took some taxis, and stayed at a Motel 6. Ran my pockets dry. I’m a college student so it’s hard as it is…I had 51 cents left in my account. I had no idea how I was going to get back to campus, but the staff helped me and made sure I wasn’t stuck or abandoned. Thank you! I greatly appreciate this place and everyone in it!”
– Haley*, 19 *Names have been changed to protect patient privacy
The procedure typically takes between 15 – 30 minutes depending on how far along you are in the pregnancy. It can be performed while awake, with Valium, or with light or full sedation. It is an outpatient procedure called a D&E.
After a surgical abortion, you will rest in our Observation Room for 30-90 minutes. The length of time depends on how far you were in the pregnancy and your choice of pain management. During that time, staff will monitor your vital signs and give you something to eat and drink. We can also provide ibuprofen and a hot water bottle if you’re experiencing cramping. Prior to discharge, you’ll receive both verbal and written instructions for post-abortion care. It is important to keep this information with you so that you may refer to it later.
When you obtain a Surgical Abortion, you can choose a type of pain management for the procedure. Here are the options we offer at Allegheny Reproductive Health Center:
We offer sedation administered through an IV that is tailored to each patient’s sedation goals.
Some patients want to remain aware during the procedure but want to have little or no pain. Some patients want to have no memory of the procedure at all. These are all possible with the sedation we provide. We will review your sedation goals with you before your procedure and use a combination of medications tailored to meet your expectations.
Someone is required to drive you home after receiving sedation; you should not drive a vehicle again until the day after your procedure.
You will be required to fast before your appointment. You should not eat anything starting 8 hours prior to your appointment. You can continue to drink clear liquids up to 2 hours prior to your appointment. We encourage you to drink water, Gatorade/Powerade/Pedialyte, clear juices or other clear liquids up to 2 hours before your appointment.
Valium is a medication that is taken by mouth that help to decrease anxiety and make you more relaxed for your procedure. It does not help with pain. Someone is required to drive you home after receiving Valium; you should not drive a vehicle again until the day after your procedure. There are no eating or drinking restrictions with Valium. Click here for costs and payment information.
You will not receive any additional medication besides the local numbing medication in your cervix. You will remain awake during the procedure and will be able to respond to the staff in the room. Because you will be awake, you will most likely feel strong cramping and pressure. You will be able to drive yourself home after your procedure, if you would like to. There are no eating or drinking restrictions.
Allegheny Reproductive Health Center is licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the CLIA, and our physicians are board certified and hold unrestricted MD licenses in the state of Pennsylvania. ARHC is accredited by the National Abortion Federation (NAF) and the Abortion Care Network (ACN).
Telephone: (412) 661-8811
Fax: (412) 363-6901
Allegheny Reproductive Health Center is a reproductive health clinic providing abortion and other gynecological, including the abortion pill, surgical abortion, first trimester abortion and second trimester abortion to all those who need it. Allegheny Reproductive Health Center is located in Pittsburgh and serves patients throughout the region including Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Lancaster, Hanover, Chambersburg, Lebanon, Williamsport, Altoona, Johnstown, New Castle, Uniontown, Washington, Erie, Corry, Monroeville, Mckeesport, West Mifflin, Wexford, Bethel Park, Irwin, Columbus, Mansfield, Youngstown, Warren, Canton, Akron, Cleveland, Steubenville, Fairmont, Morgantown, Wheeling and Charleston, as well as surrounding areas.