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. Women’s Choice Clinic 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 in the second or third trimester 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]. 

Are Late-Term Abortions Legal in Texas?

All abortion is illegal in Texas, though exceptions can be made to save the life of the mother. This will not affect care for medical emergencies, such as miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. Women who receive abortions will not be held criminally or civilly liable[2][3]. 

If you’re considering traveling out of state for a late-term abortion, schedule a free ultrasound at Women’s Choice Clinic first! We will help you explore all of your pregnancy options, so you can make the best choice for your health and future!

How are Late-Term Abortions Performed?

Late-term abortions are performed after 13 weeks of pregnancy. To begin, the abortion provider will dilate (open) your cervix. This can be done with medication or by inserting a series of dilators (rods). You may receive some type of anesthesia before the procedure begins[4].

Once the cervix is dilated enough, a suction device is used to remove the contents of the uterus. Afterward, you may be prescribed pain medication to manage your pain and/or antibiotics to help prevent an infection[4]. 

Is Late-Term Abortion Safe?

Like any medical procedure, late-term abortion comes with risks and side effects, including[4]: 

• Heavy vaginal bleeding or hemorrhaging. Vaginal bleeding is expected after an abortion. However, if you experience heavy bleeding, contact your healthcare provider immediately. 
• Organ damage. The uterus, bladder, or bowel can be injured with the tools used during an abortion. If this happens, additional surgery may be needed to treat any injuries.
• Incomplete abortion. Sometimes, the uterus doesn’t get emptied completely. Medication or surgery may be needed to complete the procedure. 
• Infection. If an incomplete abortion is not treated in time, it could cause an infection. You may need antibiotics to treat the infection. 

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[5]. 

Get the Facts on Late-Term Abortion at Women’s Choice Clinic 

We understand. Considering a late-term abortion may feel overwhelming and lonely. Women’s Choice Clinic 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!

Give us a call at (817) 534-9947 or schedule your appointment online today! All services are free and confidential.

 Please be aware that Women’s Choice Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services. 

Sources

1. Abortion Surveillance—Findings and Reports. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, November 21). https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/data_stats/abortion.htm  
2. Health and Safety Code Chapter 171. Abortion. Texas Constitution and Statutes. (2021, September 1). https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HS/pdf/HS.171.pdf  
3. Health and Safety Code Chapter 170A. Performance Of Abortion. Texas Constitution and Statues. (2022, August 25). https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HS/htm/HS.170A.htm  
4. Abortion Care. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2022, August). https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/induced-abortion 
5. Dzuba, I. G., Chandrasekaran, S., Fix, L., Blanchard, K., & King, E. (2022, May 12). Pain, Side Effects, and Abortion Experience Among People Seeking Abortion Care in the Second Trimester. Women’s Health Reports (New Rochelle, N.Y.). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9148646/