MVA and D&E Course | October 2025

This one-day, hands-on theoretical training course focuses on the surgical management of abortion and miscarriage across gestations. The course specifically focuses on Manual Vacuum Aspiration (MVA) and Dilatation and Evacuation (D&E) techniques. Delegates will be able to sign up for a half day or the full day based on their interest and existing skills.

MVA is an alternative to electric suction or dilatation and curettage for evacuation of the uterine contents. The MVA procedure is performed with a hand-operated vacuum syringe, typically under local anaesthetic, in a treatment room. With the high safety profile of this procedure and the increasing potential for the delivery of uterine evacuation outside of the theatre, there is a need to improve access to MVA in the UK. In addition to providing a grounding in the MVA procedure, this course covers the equipment, staffing, analgesia and other requirements for surgical uterine evacuation in the outpatient setting.

D&E is an essential life saving skill in the context of abortion and management of mid-trimester miscarriage and pregnancy complications. This procedure involves the dilation of the cervix followed by removal of uterine contents using instruments, typically performed under local or general anesthesia. Given its established safety profile there exists a critical need to enhance accessibility to D&E in healthcare settings. In addition to training on the D&E procedure itself, this course delves into the necessary equipment, staffing, anesthesia options, and logistical requirements essential for the successful execution of surgical uterine evacuation.

This course will be beneficial to those who are unfamiliar with surgical management of abortion and miscarriage, and those in need of an update on the latest evidence.