Should I fast before an abortion surgery?

In general, abortion surgery refers to induced abortion. Whether fasting is required before the procedure mainly depends on the type of surgical method and anesthesia used. If a medical abortion or local anesthesia is chosen, fasting is usually not necessary. However, if the abortion is performed under general anesthesia, fasting is required. Detailed explanations are as follows:

Medical abortion or abortion under local anesthesia typically does not require fasting, as medical abortion mainly involves taking medication orally to terminate the pregnancy, which is not affected by food intake. Additionally, the effects of local anesthesia are limited and have minimal impact on the gastrointestinal tract, making postoperative nausea and vomiting less likely. Therefore, patients are not required to fast before the procedure.

However, if an abortion is performed under general anesthesia, it is usually recommended to fast for 6–8 hours beforehand to ensure the stomach is empty. This helps prevent gastroesophageal reflux caused by anesthesia, reducing the risk of aspiration and potentially serious complications such as aspiration pneumonia. Thus, it is recommended that patients undergo the procedure while fasting.

To ensure safety, it is advised that patients consult with a physician before undergoing an abortion, following the doctor's instructions. Additionally, patients should rest well after the procedure and avoid sexual intercourse too soon to prevent an increased risk of infection.