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RU-486 (Mifepristone) | Suction Aspiration
Dilation and Curettage (D & C) | Dilation and Evacuation (D & E)   Prostaglandin | Dilation and Extraction (D & X)

Dilation and Evacuation (D & E)

This type of abortion is done after the third month of pregnancy.
First, the cervix is dilated. Then, Laminaria sticks (made of sterilized, compressed seaweed) are commonly inserted into the cervix. When inserted, the Laminaria sticks absorb moisture and expand, causing the cervix to enlarge. A pliers-like instrument is inserted through the cervix into the uterus and used to tear away parts of the fetus. Once outside the womb, the fetus may then be reassembled to ensure that all body parts have been removed.