Late-Term Abortion: Procedures, Risks, Pain, and More

If you’re further along in your pregnancy, you may be wondering if abortion is still an option for you. Is it safe when you’re farther along? Is it more painful than early-term abortion? It may feel like you have too many questions and not enough time.

Take a deep breath. Pregnancy Decision Line is here to help! In this blog, we’re exploring late-term abortion, so you can make an informed and empowered decision! Keep reading to learn more!

What is Late-Term Abortion?

Late-term abortion refers to an abortion that is performed during the second trimester (14 to 26 weeks) or third trimester (27 to 40 weeks) of pregnancy.

Late-term abortions are rare, but they do happen. In 2021, 5.7% of abortions in the United States were performed between 14 to 20 weeks. 0.9% were performed at or beyond 21 weeks.¹

How are Late-Term Abortions Performed?

There are two late-term abortion procedures: dilation and evacuation (D&E) and labor induction abortion. The one you receive depends on how far along you are in your pregnancy.

Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)

Dilation and evacuations (D&E) are performed after 13 weeks and up to 24 weeks of pregnancy.² To begin, the doctor will dilate (open) the cervix, which can be done in one of three ways²:

• Shortly before the procedure, the doctor gives you medication to soften the cervix.
• Shortly before the procedure, the doctor inserts and removes metal rods to expand the cervix.
• The day before the procedure, the doctor inserts sponge-like sticks into the cervix. Over time, they will absorb moisture, expand, and open the cervix.

Once dilation is complete, the doctor will use forceps to remove the fetus and placenta. This procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes.³

Labor Induction Abortion

Labor induction abortions are performed after 16 weeks of pregnancy.³

To begin, the doctor will numb your abdomen with a painkiller. They will then inject either digoxin or potassium chloride through your abdomen. This injection will travel through the uterus and into the amniotic fluid and fetus to stop the fetal heartbeat.³

Next, the doctor will administer medication to start contractions, which will cause your cervix to dilate. Finally, misoprostol is taken to make the uterus cramp and expel the fetus, completing the abortion.³

Is Late-Term Abortion Safe?

Both forms of late-term abortion come with risks and side effects, including:

• Nausea and vomiting⁴
• Fever and chills⁴
• Diarrhea⁴
• Abdominal pain⁴
• Heavy bleeding^3,4
• Tears in the wall of the uterus^3,4
• Injuries to the cervix^3,4
• Infection^3,4
• Failed induction^3,4

If the induction fails, you may need a dilation and evacuation to complete the procedure.^3,4 It should also be noted that late-term abortion can be painful. Studies have found that women who received late-term abortions experienced more pain than they expected during their procedures.⁴

Get the Facts on Late-Term Abortion at Pregnancy Decision Line

We understand. Considering a late-term abortion may feel overwhelming and lonely. Pregnancy Decision Line is a safe place to ask the hard questions, process your emotions, and get the care you deserve. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your health and future!

All of our services are 100% free and confidential. We exist to provide accurate medical information and support to women and men facing an unplanned pregnancy. Our pregnancy centers do not offer or refer for pregnancy terminations or birth control. Information is provided as an educational service and should not be relied on as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.

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