Saline abortion, a method more commonly used in the 1980s and early 90s, is an instillation abortion procedure. During this process, amniotic fluid is removed from the uterus and replaced with a saline solution, which the fetus ingests. The fetus is then killed by salt poisoning, dehydration, brain hemorrhage, and convulsions, ultimately resulting in the abortion.
Before the installation, the cervix is dilated to ease the injection of the chemical solution into the amniotic sac. The saline solution induces uterine contractions, which helps expel the fetus from the woman’s body. Though saline abortions were once more prevalent, they have been largely replaced by other methods, such as dilation and evacuation (D&E) abortions, where the fetus is dismembered using forceps.
As abortion continues to be a fiercely debated and politically charged issue, it is important to understand the different procedures utilized over the years. Saline abortion, though less common today, played a significant role in shaping the contemporary discourse on abortion and reproductive rights.
Understanding Saline Abortion
Basics of Saline Abortion
Saline abortion, also known as “saline amniocentesis,” “salting out,” or “hypertonic saline” abortion, is a technique that was used more frequently in the past for terminating pregnancies after 16 weeks gestation when enough fluid has accumulated in the amniotic sac surrounding the fetus. It has been largely replaced by other methods, such as dilation and evacuation (D&E) abortions.
In a saline abortion, a needle is inserted through the woman’s abdomen, and a saline solution is injected into the amniotic sac. The saline solution disrupts the fluid environment and causes the fetus distress. This typically results in the death of the fetus within a few hours. After the fetus has died, the woman goes through labor to expel the fetus from her body.
Saline Solution and Its Application
The saline solution used in this type of abortion is a concentrated salt solution that can be toxic to the fetus when introduced into the amniotic sac. A healthcare professional injects the saline solution into the abdomen and the amniotic fluid.
Before the injection, the woman’s cervix must be dilated, which can be done through medications or manual dilation techniques. After the injection, the saline solution causes the amniotic fluid to become hypertonic, leading to the death of the fetus. Additionally, the saline solution can induce uterine contractions, which help expel the fetus from the woman’s body during labor.
Saline abortion was more common in the 1980s and early 1990s; however, due to the advent of safer and more effective abortion procedures, it is much less common today. While it was once an accepted method for ending pregnancies, modern medical advancements have led to the development of less invasive and less risky methods for both the woman and the fetus.
Saline Abortion Procedure
Saline abortion, a type of instillation abortion, is typically performed during the second trimester of pregnancy. This section will discuss the various steps involved in a saline abortion procedure, including preparation and initial steps, injection and labor induction, as well as delivery and aftercare.
Preparation and Initial Steps
Before the saline abortion procedure, the patient undergoes a thorough consultation and examination with a doctor. An ultrasound is performed to confirm the pregnancy stage and assess the position of the fetus, uterus, and placenta.
During the process, the cervix must be dilated to allow for the passage of the fetus during the procedure. This is typically done with the help of laminaria, small, sterile dilators made of a seaweed material that expands as they absorb moisture. The laminaria are inserted into the cervix and left for several hours to overnight to allow for gentle and slow dilation.
Injection and Labor Induction
Once the cervix is adequately dilated, the doctor will perform the instillation abortion by injecting a chemical solution, typically containing saline, urea, or prostaglandin, through the abdominal wall and into the amniotic sac. The injected solution is designed to cause the fetus to become nonviable.
Following the injection, the patient may be given medication such as misoprostol to induce uterine contractions, which helps expel the fetus and placenta from the uterus. This part of the procedure may take several hours, during which the medical team closely monitors the patient for any complications or signs of distress.
Delivery and Aftercare
When the induced contractions have progressed enough, the fetus and placenta are expelled from the uterus through the dilated cervix. Sometimes, the doctor may need to use additional methods like dilation and evacuation (D&E) or a hysterectomy to ensure all fetal tissue and the placenta are completely removed from the uterus.
After the procedure, the patient will receive appropriate aftercare and follow-up instructions from the medical team. They may prescribe pain medication and antibiotics and provide guidelines for recovery and follow-up appointments to ensure the patient’s well-being.
Complications and Risks
There are several complications and risks associated with saline abortion procedures. These risks can be categorized into physical complications and emotional or mental impacts.
Physical Complications
Physical complications can emerge from the procedure, ranging from mild to severe. The most common complications include pain, bleeding, infection, and hemorrhage. In more severe cases, there is a risk of uterine rupture, retained placenta, and cervical fistulae.
While the risk of death from abortion is generally low, certain factors, such as the stage of pregnancy, the method used, and the medical environment, can contribute to increased risk. Late-term abortions, particularly those performed in the third trimester, can pose a greater risk to the patient. According to the Guttmacher Institute, the risk of major complications and death increases with the fetus’s gestational age.
In saline abortions, hypertonic saline is injected into the amniotic sac, causing the uterus to contract and expel the fetus. This method has been largely replaced by prostaglandins and analogs, which have fewer side effects and lower risks. However, complications can still arise, such as a failed abortion, live birth, dehydration, and convulsions.
Additional risks include disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC), a severe bleeding disorder, and the need for a blood transfusion. A CDC report on abortion complications indicated that uterine perforation, another potential risk, may occur during the procedure, leading to a hysterectomy or other surgery, such as cesarean section or D&C (dilation and curettage).
Emotional and Mental Impact
Abortion can have emotional and mental consequences for the patient. The psychological impact varies from person to person and may include guilt, sadness, or regret. It is important to emphasize that these emotions are not experienced by every individual who undergoes an abortion, but they may be present for some. Counseling and mental health support are essential resources for those who need assistance in coping with the emotional aftermath of an abortion.
It is crucial to know the potential complications and risks associated with saline abortion and consult a qualified healthcare professional for guidance and support throughout the process.
Alternatives to Saline Abortion
Saline abortion is one of the methods used to terminate pregnancies, particularly in the second trimester. However, there are several alternatives to saline abortions, broadly categorized as medical and surgical abortion methods. This section discusses these alternatives to understand the options available comprehensively.
Medical Abortion Methods
Medical abortion is a non-invasive method of terminating pregnancies that usually involves the administration of medications. This abortion can be safely performed within the first nine weeks of pregnancy.
- Induction abortion: Induction abortion is terminating a pregnancy in the second trimester, usually after 16 weeks. It involves the administration of medications, such as misoprostol, to induce labor and deliver the fetus. It may also involve the prior administration of a drug like digoxin to cause fetal death before labor induction. The National Abortion Federation considers induction abortion as a safe alternative to saline abortion.
Surgical Abortion Methods
Surgical abortion involves physically removing the pregnancy tissue from the uterus. These methods are more invasive than medical abortion and are typically performed in a clinical setting. Here are some surgical abortion methods:
- Suction termination: Also known as suction curettage or vacuum aspiration abortion, suction termination is typically performed during the first trimester. The procedure involves the removal of the pregnancy tissue by suction with a specialized device. The costs for suction termination may range from $500 to $700, according to WebMD.
- Dilation and evacuation (D&E): Dilation and evacuation abortions are generally performed during the second trimester. This procedure involves dilating the cervix and using surgical instruments to remove the pregnancy tissue. D&E is considered safer and more effective than instillation methods like saline abortion.
It is essential for individuals seeking an abortion to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss the most appropriate method for their situation. The choice of an abortion method will depend on factors such as gestational age, medical history, and personal preferences.
Survivors of Saline Abortions
Notable Survivor Stories
One well-known saline abortion survivor is Gianna Jessen. She survived a saline infusion abortion in 1977 when the salt solution was injected into the amniotic sac, causing the baby to be burned alive. The abortionist at the clinic did not arrive in time to complete the procedure, and Jessen was delivered alive at the abortion clinic. Due to the lack of oxygen during the abortion, Jessen was diagnosed with cerebral palsy.
Another remarkable survivor is Melissa Ohden. At 14, she discovered that her mother had attempted to abort her by saline abortion. She was saved by a nurse who heard her crying as she lay among medical waste at a US hospital. Melissa’s testimony challenges common misconceptions about abortions and has brought her story to the attention of various organizations and political figures.
Support and Advocacy
Survivors of abortion, like Gianna Jessen and Melissa Ohden, work tirelessly to raise awareness of the reality of abortion procedures and their potential consequences. They advocate for the rights of unborn children and support other abortion survivors in their journeys toward healing and recovery.
Organizations like Planned Parenthood, often criticized by abortion survivors and advocates for reproductive rights, continue to play a central role in the debate. Political lines are typically drawn, with Democrats often being in favor of pro-choice policies and Republicans in favor of pro-life policies. While the conversation revolves around a woman’s right to choose, the experiences of survivors are often overlooked.
Both Jessen and Ohden have experienced various health challenges related to their survival of saline abortions. For example, Jessen’s diagnosis of cerebral palsy has caused her to struggle with seizures throughout her life. These survivors’ stories shed light not only on the physical aftermath of surviving an abortion but also on the emotional and psychological toll it can take on the individuals affected.
FAQs
What is a saline abortion?
A saline abortion is an instillation abortion, where a concentrated salt solution (hypertonic saline) is injected into the amniotic sac, replacing the amniotic fluid. The fetus is killed by salt poisoning, dehydration, brain hemorrhage, and convulsions.
When is a saline abortion performed?
Saline abortions are usually performed during late pregnancy, around weeks 20 to 24. However, the method is increasingly being debated and restricted in various countries.
How is a saline abortion different from other instillation abortions?
In addition to hypertonic saline, other medications that can be instilled for abortion include urea, prostaglandins, and prostaglandin analogs. The main difference between saline abortion and other instillation abortions is the chemical solution is utilized to induce uterine contractions and expel the fetus.
What is the procedure for a saline abortion?
During a saline abortion, amniotic fluid is removed from the uterus and replaced with a saline solution. The cervix is dilated before the injection, and uterine contractions are induced to expel the fetus.
What are the potential risks and complications of a saline abortion?
Some potential risks and complications associated with saline abortion include infection, heavy bleeding, uterine damage, and incomplete abortion. It is important to discuss potential risks and complications with your healthcare provider before undergoing a saline abortion.
