We always use a sterile cannula. Before abortion was legalized, we used cannulas more than once and kept them in a solution that reduced bacteria. Now that abortion is legal throughout the country, it is easy to purchase disposable sterile cannulas that are individually packaged .
It is important to be very careful not to touch the vaginal walls to keep the cannula sterile so that we don’t introduce bacteria into the uterus. Do remember that the uterus is open to the outside; it is not a sterile cavity. You just don’t want to bring in a lot of new germs all at once. Usually, before inserting the cannula, we swab the cervix with some antibacterial solution to wipe off any mucus or other secretions that are there.