THE MARIE STOPES (SURGICAL) PROCEDURE.
WHAT IS THE MARIE STOPES PROCEDURE (MSP)?:
The Marie Stopes Procedure is the brand name for the manual vacuum aspiration procedure used in MSSA centres. A procedure where the gestation period is under 12 weeks is quick and minimally painful as it is performed:
· In a clean and safe environment.
· Under vocal local.
· Using a minimal dilatation technique with a small cannula and using sterile, non-rigid instruments.
WHEN CAN A WOMAN HAVE A MARIE STOPES PROCEDURE (MSP)?
A woman can have a MSP at any time, provided:
· She has made an informed, voluntary choice.
· The fetus is less than 12 weeks gestational age.
· There are no medical contra-indications ( reasons why she cannot have the procedure.)
WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE THAT WILL BE FOLLOWED?
· The woman will first undergo a scan.
· She will then undergo a bimanual examination (an internal vaginal examination.
· A medical and surgical history will be taken and the woman will be counseled as to the options available. Contraceptive options will also be discussed.
· If a MSP is chosen, a voluntary consent form will be signed.
· Medication will be given.
· The client will be given a wrap around (a sarong/skirt) to wear and relax in a waiting area.
· The procedure is performed in the procedure room and only team members are allowed to be present. One team member will do the MSP; the 2nd person will support the woman if needed.
· Once the procedure is completed, she will rest in a recovery room where her condition will be carefully monitored.
· The client may be discharged as soon as:
* She feels comfortable and capable of leaving unassissted.
*She has discussed and understands the contents of her AFTERCARE document.
* She has discussed and understood the discharge instructions.
* She leaves with her chosen contraceptive method.
* She has all the important contact telephone numbers to ensure she has access to all the support
she may need in the event she has any enquiries or concerns.
ADVANTAGES OF A MSP.
· While the stay at the centre can take 3 – 4 hours, the procedure itself takes between 3 and 5 minutes.
· It is a “same day” procedure.
· All activities are undertaken by trained and qualified staff in a legally designated facility.
· No follow up visit is normally required.
WHEN IS A MSP UNSUITABLE?
· If the pregnancy is over 12 weeks.
· If there is evidence of a serious pelvic infection.
· If the woman has undergone recent abdominal surgery. e.g. “tummy tuck.”
AREAS OF CONCERN.
· The women may experience some discomfort during the procedure.*
· The length of stay at the centre will depend on the recovery time of the individual.
· There are the same (fortunately) rare risks involved that one would find with any minor surgical procedure.**
* All staff are trained in “vocal local” – a form of therapy developed by the staff of Marie Stopes
International - which assists in relaxing a woman while she undergoes a procedure. In most centres there
is also access to anesthetics for which an extra fee is charged.
**Marie Stopes staff, facilities and protocols are of World standard and we practice a level of service that
can be associated with being the leading private reproductive health service supplier in South Africa.
Please note: It is important that anyone enquiring about abortion services of any kind should:
1. Discuss their medical history with a qualified / properly trained health professional.
2. Obtain counseling as to the options available to them.
3. Ensure the facility is legally designated.
For further information or to make a confidential booking
please call our
Toll Free Number: 0800 11 77 85