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In the stress of an unplanned pregnancy, you may have immediately begun searching for ways to end the pregnancy. Perhaps you came across the possibility of using Methotrexate for abortion. Today we will explore Methotrexate and its considerations. 

What is a Methotrexate Abortion?

Methotrexate is a cytotoxic medication, meaning it prevents the replication or growth of living cells. According to the FDA, physicians can prescribe Methotrexate to treat cancers, arthritis, and psoriasis. 

Many OBGYNs prescribe Methotrexate to treat ectopic pregnancies or non-viable pregnancies. Some providers prescribe Methotrexate to end a viable pregnancy. Both of these uses are considered “off-label,” meaning the FDA has not yet officially approved the drug for those indications. So, physicians and their patients must thoroughly discuss the risks, side effects, process, requirements, and follow-up. 

How is Methotrexate and Misoprostol Used for Abortion? 

Methotrexate can be used in conjunction with misoprostol to abort a pregnancy before eight weeks. Methotrexate prevents the pregnancy from progressing, while misoprostol expels the pregnancy from the uterus. Because of the risks associated with Methotrexate, women need frequent appointments with their provider before, during, and after a Methotrexate abortion. 

How Does Methotrexate Work for Ectopic Pregnancy? 

An ectopic pregnancy refers to a pregnancy that has developed outside of the uterus and cannot proceed normally. If untreated, an ectopic pregnancy could cause death. 

After a thorough evaluation with blood work and an ultrasound, physicians often prescribe Methotrexate to a woman with a confirmed or suspected ectopic pregnancy. The Methotrexate stops the pregnancy from continuing.^[1] Frequent follow-up with blood tests is required. 

What are the Side Effects of a Methotrexate Abortion? 

Possible side effects of Methotrexate include^[2]:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness

What are the Risks of a Methotrexate Abortion? 

Even small doses of Methotrexate can pose risks. Because Methotrexate can affect the growth of healthy cells, it can impact many different organs and could cause reactions that include^[3]:

• Anaphylaxis (a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction)
• Gastrointestinal Toxicity
• Liver Toxicity
• Lung Toxicity
• Skin Reactions
• Kidney Toxicity
• Death with medication errors such as taking too much or too frequently. 

Women should maintain close communication with their healthcare provider if using Methotrexate for an abortion. 

What Do I Need to Know Before Taking Methotrexate for an Abortion?

If you’re considering a Methotrexate abortion, you need to know:

• How far along you are. Most providers will not prescribe Methotrexate for an abortion beyond a gestational age of 50 days. The most accurate way to determine gestational age is via an ultrasound. 
• Your medical history. Women with a history of kidney, liver, or gastrointestinal diseases may not qualify for a Methotrexate abortion. 
• Whether you’re willing to undergo a surgical abortion if the Methotrexate abortion is not successful. 
• Ensure your provider is available 24/7 in the case of questions or complications. 
• Ensure you have access to emergency care. 
• Remember that Methotrexate for abortion has not been approved by the FDA.

If you’re considering a Methotrexate abortion, call us at (760) 945-4673 to speak with our healthcare professionals about your options. 

What Do I Need to Know After Using Methotrexate for Abortion? 

After a dosage of Methotrexate for an abortion, women need to^[4]:

• Avoid sex, alcohol, prescription medications not approved by your provider, and vitamins/foods that contain folic acid. 
• Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. 
• Avoid pregnancy for up to 6 months. 
• Follow up frequently with your provider for lab work and ultrasounds. 

Can You Buy Abortion Pills Over the Counter? 

Women can only obtain Methotrexate for an abortion via a prescription from a qualified provider in states where it is legal. Before prescribing the dose, providers should perform the following:

• Pelvic exam
• Vital signs
• Weight (so that the right dosage can be prescribed)
• Ultrasound 
• Lab work (including hemoglobin, hematocrit, Rh factor, Renal and hepatic function, and a quantitative hCG)

Have Questions About Methotrexate Abortion? Get Answers at Pathway Health Clinic.

At Pathway Health Clinic we want to empower you with information about all of your options. Before choosing a Methotrexate abortion, call us today at (760) 945-4673 to speak with our compassionate and qualified staff. 

Please be aware that Pathway Health Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services. 

Sources

1. Mayo Clinic Staff. (2022, March 12). Ectopic Pregnancy. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372093
2. West-Ward, Pharmaceuticals Corporation, & FDA. (2020, August). Methotrexate Label. FDA. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/040054s015,s016,s017.pdf
3. See source #2.
4. Mayo Clinic Staff. (2024, February 1). Methotrexate (oral route). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/methotrexate-oral-route/description/drg-20084837#drug-precautions

If pregnancy wasn’t part of your plan, you may be considering a medical abortion. As you explore your options, there are a few things you’ll want to know so that you can make a fully informed decision! 

Today, we’ll discuss what you need to know about medical abortion. 

What is a Medical Abortion? 

A medical abortion involves taking medications to end a pregnancy. You may hear it referred to as a “medication abortion,” “chemical abortion,” or “the abortion pill.” The FDA has approved the use of pills for medical abortion up until ten weeks of pregnancy.¹

How Does a Medical Abortion Work? 

A medical abortion uses two medications—mifepristone and misoprostol. Both must be prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional. 

The first medication, mifepristone, interferes with progesterone receptors so that the pregnancy stops progressing. The second medication, misoprostol, causes the uterus to cramp and expel the pregnancy.² 

What to Know Before a Medical Abortion

If you’re considering a medical abortion, these are the things you’ll first want to know:

1. How far along am I? It’s important to know how far along you are, as the abortion pill can only be taken up to 10 weeks gestation (as mentioned above). An ultrasound is the most accurate way to determine how far along you are in your pregnancy. 

2. Is the pregnancy ectopic? If you have an ectopic pregnancy, you need immediate medical attention, and no longer qualify for a medical abortion.

3. Is medical abortion legal in California? Currently, abortion is legal up until viability in California.³ Viability refers to the point in pregnancy when a fetus is developed enough to survive outside the womb with medical help. Viability occurs at approximately 24 weeks of pregnancy.⁴ However, the abortion pill can only be taken up until ten weeks of pregnancy, as mentioned above.

Call Pathway Health Clinic for a free ultrasound at (760) 945-4673. 

Where Can I Go to Get a Medical Abortion? 

Both mifepristone and misopristol must be prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider. After verifying the viability and location of the pregnancy, the provider will rule out contraindications to an abortion such as an ectopic pregnancy, drug allergies, blood thinning disorders, an IUD, or other medical disorders.⁵

Women should never order abortion pills online from a pharmacy not approved by the FDA. The FDA has not evaluated those pills for safety⁶ and could contain the wrong type or amount of medication.

What are Medical Abortion Side Effects? 

Medical abortions cause bleeding and cramping as the pregnancy is expelled from the uterus. Clots often accompany heavy bleeding. Cramping can be mild to moderate. If a woman ever bleeds through two thick pads in an hour, then she should seek emergent medical care.⁷ 

What are Medical Abortion Complications? 

Complications after taking the second abortion pill (misoprostol) can include hemorrhaging (very heavy bleeding), an infection, an allergic reaction, or an incomplete abortion, which could require further medical intervention.⁸ 

How Long Do You Bleed After Medical Abortion?

Bleeding after a medical abortion typically lasts for about 9 to 16 days⁹, but could cause bleeding for up to three weeks.¹⁰ Women should receive follow-up care to evaluate for any complications. 

Who Shouldn’t Get a Medical Abortion? 

Here are reasons you may not be eligible for a medical abortion¹¹:

• You’re more than ten weeks pregnant. 
• You have an IUD (Intrauterine Device). 
• You have an ectopic pregnancy. A pregnancy located outside of the uterus can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical care. An ultrasound can verify that the pregnancy is in the right place. 
• You have a clotting disorder or some other medical condition. Speak with a healthcare professional before an abortion. 
• Don’t have access to emergency care. In the case that you experience complications after a medical abortion, you should have access to emergency care. 

How Much Does a Medical Abortion Cost? 

A medical abortion, or abortion pills, can cost between $500 to $950.¹² These costs often include fees for ultrasounds, blood tests, medications, and follow-up appointments.

Contact Pathway Health Clinic for a free ultrasound today! 

How Effective is Medical Abortion? 

Up to 8% of women who take the abortion pill require a further surgical procedure because the abortion was incomplete.¹³

What Are My Options Other than a Medical Abortion? 

If you’re further along than ten weeks pregnant, you’ve verified that the pregnancy is not ectopic, and you don’t have medical conditions that would make it unsafe to have an abortion, then you may qualify for a surgical abortion. In a surgical abortion, a medical provider uses instruments to remove a pregnancy from the uterus.¹⁴

Medical Abortion Information in Vista, California 

At Pathway Health Clinic we want to empower you with the information you need about all of your options. Before choosing a medical abortion, call us today at (760) 945-4673 to speak with our compassionate and qualified staff. 

Please be aware that Pathway Health Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services.

Sources

1. FDA. (2023, March 23). Information about Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/information-about-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation 
2. Cleveland Clinic. (2024). Medical Abortion. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21899-medical-abortion
3. Proclamation on Reproductive Freedom. (2019, May 31). Retrieved from https://www.gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Proclamation-on-Reproductive-Freedom.pdf  
4. Breborowicz, G. (2001, January). Limits of fetal viability and its enhancement. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11753511/ 
5. See source #1.
6. See source #1.
7. Danco Laboratories, LLC. (2022). MEDICATION GUIDE: Mifeprex. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/020687s014lbl.pdf 
8. See source #7.
9. See source #7.
10. See source #2. 
11. See source #7.
12. As advertised by abortion providers in August 2024. 
13. See source #7.
14. Mayo Clinic Staff. (2023, November 7). Dilation and curettage (D&C). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dilation-and-curettage/about/pac-20384910

An unplanned pregnancy can feel disorienting. If you’re sorting through your options, you’ll want to begin by addressing a few questions, including how far along you are, types of abortion, and laws in your state. Keep reading to learn about your abortion options!

How Far Along Am I? 

Gestational age (how far along you are in your pregnancy) can be estimated based on the last menstrual period, but an ultrasound is the most exact way to determine it. An ultrasound will also confirm the viability of the pregnancy and rule out an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy located outside of the uterus). An ectopic can be life-threatening and requires medical intervention, not the abortion pills.¹

Call Pathway Health Clinic for a free ultrasound today at (760) 945-4673. 

What are the Types of Abortion? 

There are two types of abortion—abortion pills (or a medical abortion) and a surgical abortion. Your eligibility for either type depends on state laws and how far along you are in your pregnancy. Next, you need to consider the cost and risks. 

What is the Abortion Pill? 

The abortion pill is also called medical abortion, chemical abortion, RU-486, or at-home abortion. The FDA has approved the abortion pill for up to 10 weeks of pregnancy.²

The abortion pill involves two medications. The first medication, mifepristone, interferes with the pregnancy’s progesterone receptors and prevents the pregnancy from developing. The second medication, misoprostol, causes the uterus to cramp and expel the pregnancy.³

What are the Risks of the Abortion Pill? 

The abortion pills can cause cramping and bleeding for up to four weeks.³ Complications after taking the first abortion pill (mifepristone) can include prolonged bleeding, an infection, an allergic reaction, or an incomplete abortion, which could require further medical intervention.³ Women should receive follow-up care to evaluate for any complications. 

What is a Surgical Abortion? 

In a surgical abortion, a provider dilates a woman’s cervix before removing the pregnancy using a curette to scrape out the uterus, a suction catheter, forceps, or other instruments. The type of procedure depends on the abortion provider’s preference, how far along a woman is in her pregnancy and the state laws. 

What are the Risks of a Surgical Abortion? 

Complications from a surgical abortion can include bleeding, infection, and pain. In some cases, the surgical abortion is incomplete, so an additional procedure is required. In rare cases, surgical abortions could perforate the uterus or surrounding organs.⁴ Multiple surgical abortions could lead to scarring within the uterus which could cause infertility in the future.⁵

What are the Abortion Laws in California? 

Currently, abortion is legal up until viability in California.⁶ Viability refers to the point in pregnancy when a fetus is developed enough to survive outside the womb with medical help. Viability occurs at approximately 24 weeks of pregnancy.⁷

We strongly recommend receiving an ultrasound before an abortion. Click here to find out why.

How Much is an Abortion? 

A medical abortion, or abortion pills, can cost between $500 to $950. Surgical abortions can cost between $500 to $1,150 in the first trimester and $570 to $2,300 in the second trimester.⁸ These costs often include fees for ultrasounds, blood tests, medications, and follow-up appointments.

Abortion Information in Vista, California

As you consider what to do next, take one step at a time. Call Pathway Health Clinic at (760) 945-4673 for a free, confidential appointment. Our compassionate staff will provide you with the information you need so that you can make the best decision for you!

Please be aware that Pathway Health Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services. 

Sources

1. Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Ectopic Pregnancy. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9687-ectopic-pregnancy
2.  FDA. (2023, January). Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation?sm_guid=NTU1NzgyfDYzMDE1OTM2fC0xfGppbUBha2ZhbWlseS5vcmd8NTY4OTI4MXx8MHwwfDE5OTYwMDk4OHwxMDg2fDB8MHx8NTQ3NzI2fDA1
3.  Cleveland Clinic. (2024). Medical Abortion. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21899-medical-abortion
4. Mayo Clinic. (2023, November 7). Dilation and curettage (D&C). https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dilation-and-curettage/about/pac-20384910
5. Yvonne Butler Tobah. (2022, August 4). Could an elective abortion increase the risk of problems in a subsequent pregnancy? Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/expert-answers/abortion/faq-20058551
6. Proclamation on Reproductive Freedom. (2019, May 31). Retrieved from https://www.gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Proclamation-on-Reproductive-Freedom.pdf  
7. Breborowicz, G. (2001, January). Limits of fetal viability and its enhancement. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11753511/ 
8. As advertised by abortion providers in June 2024.

Before any medical procedure, there are often things you need to avoid. So, if you’re considering an abortion, you may be wondering what you need to avoid before, such as whether you can have sex. 

As you consider your options and before you move forward with decisions about an abortion, there are a few things you should know. Today, we’ll explore whether you can have sex before an abortion. Keep reading to learn more. 

Can You Have Sex Before an Abortion?

Some abortion providers advise women to avoid sex before an abortion. There’s a chance you can contract a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and increase the risk of developing an infection from an abortion.¹

Before choosing an abortion, call (760) 945-4673 for confidential, low-cost STD testing.

How Long After An Abortion Can You Have Sex? 

Always speak with a qualified healthcare provider to determine specific post-abortive guidelines. The best practice would be to speak with the medical professional who provided the abortion. 

Before your abortion, always ask what your follow-up will look like and who you will contact with questions or in case of unexpected side effects. 

After taking the abortion pill, women should abstain from sex for two to three weeks to prevent infection and because bleeding can last for up to four weeks.² After a surgical abortion, healthcare providers will evaluate women and clear them for activity. All women should ensure that they have follow-up after an abortion. Further, some women report a decrease in their sexual drive after an abortion because of the complex emotions they experience.³

How Long After Abortion Can You Get Pregnant? 

On average, women can ovulate three weeks after an abortion⁴, even if they’re still bleeding. If a woman chooses to be sexually active around that time, she could get pregnant again. So, before choosing abortion, women may want to consider whether they want to prevent future pregnancies. 

How Do I Know If I’m Pregnant? 

At-home pregnancy tests can tell you if you have pregnancy hormones, but they cannot tell you if the pregnancy is progressing or in the uterus. So, before choosing an abortion, you should confirm that your pregnancy is in the correct location. 

Call Pathway Health Clinic for free medical-grade pregnancy testing and an ultrasound.

Does Abortion Affect Your Relationships? 

Women may experience a variety of emotions after an abortion that can affect the ways in which they interact with their partners. Some partners also experience sadness or grief after an abortion and have difficulty communicating how they feel. 

No-cost therapy services are available to address relationship issues and more.

How Does the Abortion Pill Work?

With the abortion pill, a woman intentionally takes medication to terminate her pregnancy. Abortion pills may also be called a medical abortion, chemical abortion, RU-486, or at-home abortion. 

The process involves two medications. The first medication, mifepristone, interferes with progesterone receptors and prevents the pregnancy from developing. The second medication, misoprostol, causes the uterus to cramp and expel the pregnancy.² Women qualify for the abortion pill only up until 10 weeks of gestation.⁵ 

What Do I Need to Know Before Taking the Abortion Pill? 

Women should speak with a qualified healthcare professional and verify their eligibility for the abortion pill before taking it. This will include: 

• Estimated gestational age. Gestational age (how far along you are in pregnancy) can be estimated based on a woman’s last menstrual period, but an ultrasound is the most exact way to determine the gestational age.⁶

• Location of the pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy develops outside of the uterus and can be life-threatening if not properly treated. So, before taking abortion pills, it is recommended that a woman receive an ultrasound first. 

• Viability of pregnancy. Almost 10-20% of known pregnancies end in a miscarriage, and almost 80% of those occur within the first three months of pregnancy.⁷

Call Pathway Health Clinic at (760) 945-4673 today to receive a free ultrasound. 

Abortion Pill Information in Vista, California 

Weighing the pros and cons of an abortion can feel overwhelming. But, you aren’t alone! Visit Pathway Health Clinic to speak with our qualified and compassionate staff. We provide a confidential space for you to sort through all of your options. 

Please be aware that Pathway Health Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services.

Sources

1. Mayo Clinic Staff. (2022, April 30). Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352594
2. Medical Abortion. (2024). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21899-medical-abortion
3. Coleman, P. K., Rue, V. M., & Coyle, C. T. (2009). Induced abortion and intimate relationship quality in the Chicago Health and Social Life Survey. Public health, 123(4), 331–338. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.puhe.2009.01.005 
4. Schreiber, C. A., Sober, S., Ratcliffe, S., & Creinin, M. D. (2011). Ovulation resumption after medical abortion with mifepristone and misoprostol. Contraception, 84(3), 230–233. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.contraception.2011.01.013 
5. Danco Laboratories, LLC. (2022). MEDICATION GUIDE: Mifeprex. 
6. Ultrasound in Pregnancy. (2022). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/9704-ultrasound-in-pregnancy
7. Miscarriage. (2022). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9688-miscarriage

Understanding abortion laws can feel disorienting, especially if you already feel overwhelmed by an unplanned pregnancy. 

Some states have abortion restrictions, so women travel to other states for an abortion. If you’re considering an abortion, there are six things you should know before traveling!

1. Know About the Types of Abortion. 

There are two types of abortion—surgical and medical abortion. Before you travel, you’ll want to understand the processes and risks of these procedures. 

At Pathway Health Clinic, we provide confidential and compassionate abortion information. Click here to learn more.

2. Know How Far Along You Are in Your Pregnancy. 

Most abortion laws depend on your gestational age, or how far along you are in your pregnancy. Plus, a medical abortion, or abortion pill, has only been approved by the FDA for up to 10 weeks.¹ If a woman has a regular menstrual period, then she can estimate her gestational age. But an ultrasound is the most exact way to figure out how far along you are. 

Call Pathway Health Clinic for a free ultrasound today. 

3. Know the Laws in Your State. 

Currently, abortion is legal up until viability in California. Viability refers to the point in pregnancy when a fetus is developed enough to survive outside the womb with medical help. Viability occurs at approximately 24 weeks of pregnancy.^{2, 3}

The majority of states with abortion restrictions do not prosecute women who choose an abortion. However, in some states, individuals who aid a woman in obtaining an abortion could be civilly prosecuted. This could include aiding with transportation or finances.

4. Know the Laws in Other States. 

Although the Constitution protects a woman’s right to travel to another state for an abortion, abortion must be legal in that state.⁴ So, you’ll want to know the abortion laws in the state you plan to travel to. Other states could also have further restrictions such as required counseling, ultrasounds, or a waiting period before an abortion. 

5. Know the Cost. 

As of March 2024, abortion providers charge up to $800 for medical abortion or abortion pills.⁵ Surgical abortions can cost up to $1,150 in the first trimester, to $2,300 in the second trimester.⁶  These costs often include fees for ultrasounds, blood tests, medications, and follow-up appointments. Traveling for an abortion also includes the cost of travel, lodging, and even missing work. 

At Pathway Health Clinic, we can confirm your pregnancy and perform an ultrasound for free. We do not provide or refer for abortion services, but we want to empower you with the information you need about all of your pregnancy options. 

Call us today at (760) 945-4673 for a confidential appointment. We will never share your pregnancy decision with anyone. 

6. Know About Follow Up.

As with any medical procedure, follow-up care is recommended to evaluate for complications. Complications from the abortion pills could include retained pregnancy tissue, heavy bleeding, allergic reaction, or infection.⁷ Whereas complications from a surgical abortion could include uterine perforation, infection, or bleeding.⁸

So, if you travel out of state, you’ll need to know how long you might need to remain in the state for follow-up with the abortion provider.

Abortion Information in Vista, California 

We understand that abortion may feel like the best option for you right now. Before you spend time, money, and energy on traveling out of state, consider scheduling a confidential appointment at Pathway Health Clinic.

We provide free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and abortion information. We’re here to help you make an informed and empowered decision! 

Please be aware that Pathway Health Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services. 

Sources

1. FDA. (2023, January). Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation?sm_guid=NTU1NzgyfDYzMDE1OTM2fC0xfGppbUBha2ZhbWlseS5vcmd8NTY4OTI4MXx8MHwwfDE5OTYwMDk4OHwxMDg2fDB8MHx8NTQ3NzI2fDA1
2. Proclamation on Reproductive Freedom. (2019, May 31). Retrieved from https://www.gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Proclamation-on-Reproductive-Freedom.pdf  
3. Breborowicz, G. (2001, January). Limits of fetal viability and its enhancement. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11753511/ 
4. Justice Department Files Statement of Interest in Case on Right to Travel to Access Legal Abortions. (2023, November 9). https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-files-statement-interest-case-right-travel-access-legal-abortions
5. As advertised by abortion providers as of March 2024.
6. As advertised by abortion providers as of March 2024.
7. Cleveland Clinic. (2024, January 16). Medical Abortion. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21899-medical-abortion
8. Cleveland Clinic. (2024, February 9). What Is a D&C? https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/dilation-and-curettage

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. Pathway Health 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 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]. 

Are Late-Term Abortions Legal in California?

Currently, abortion is legal up until viability in California^[2]. Viability refers to the point in pregnancy when a fetus is developed enough to survive outside the womb with medical help. Viability occurs at approximately 24 weeks of pregnancy^[3]. 

Before an abortion, consider receiving a free ultrasound at Pathway Health Clinic to confirm how far along you are. 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?

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^[4]. To begin, the doctor will dilate (open) the cervix, which can be done in one of three ways^[4]: 

• 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.

• 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.

Once dilation is complete, the doctor will use forceps to remove the fetus and placenta. This procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes^[4].

Labor Induction Abortion

Labor induction abortions are performed after 16 weeks of pregnancy^[5]. 

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^[5]. 

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^[5].

Is Late-Term Abortion Safe?

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

• Nausea and vomiting^[5]
• Fever and chills^[5]
• Diarrhea^[5]
• Abdominal pain^[5]
• Heavy bleeding^[4;5]
• Tears in the wall of the uterus^[4;5]
• Injuries to the cervix^[4;5]
• Infection^[4;5]
• Failed induction^[4;5]

If the induction fails, you may need a dilation and evacuation to complete the procedure^[4;5]. 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^[6]. 

Get the Facts on Late-Term Abortion at Pathway Health Clinic 

We understand. Considering a late-term abortion may feel overwhelming and lonely. Pathway Health 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!

Schedule your free appointment today. All services are confidential and provided at no cost to you!

Please be aware that Pathway Health 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. Proclamation on Reproductive Freedom. (2019, May 31). https://www.gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Proclamation-on-Reproductive-Freedom.pdf 
3. Breborowicz, G. (2001, January). Limits of fetal viability and its enhancement. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11753511/ 
4. Dilation and Evacuation (D&E). Michigan Department of Health & Human Services. (n.d.). https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/adult-child-serv/informedconsent/michigans-informed-consent-for-abortion-law/procedures/dilation-and-evacuation-de  
5. Second Trimester Labor Induction Abortion. Michigan Department of Health & Human Services. (n.d.). https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/adult-child-serv/informedconsent/michigans-informed-consent-for-abortion-law/procedures/second-trimester-labor-induction-abortion  
6. 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/