The subject of abortion is undeniably one of the most emotionally charged and polarizing issues in our society. As a result, a multitude of misconceptions and misunderstandings surround the topic. Late-term abortion specialists in NYC want you to know some important facts about pregnancy termination, including why the term “late term” to describe the procedure is inaccurate.

What is a Late-Term Abortion?

A late-term abortion refers to an abortion performed later in pregnancy, typically after the 20th week, though some anti-choice activists use it to refer to pregnancies as soon as the 12th week. Medically, these procedures are categorized as second-trimester abortions, which occur between weeks 13 and 24, or third-trimester abortions, which occur from week 25 until the end of pregnancy.

These procedures, which are also referred to as surgical abortions, are relatively rare and are typically performed for specific medical reasons or in cases of severe fetal abnormalities or threats to the health of the pregnant individual.

Late-Term Abortion Specialists in NYC Want You to Know This a Misnomer

The term “late-term abortion” is misleading and stigmatizing, as it implies that these procedures are performed for non-medical reasons or on viable pregnancies that are full term or late term. Additionally, it’s not a medical term. A pregnancy is not considered late term until week 41. 

Anti-abortion proponents use this tactic to deliberately spread false information, using this term to fear and shame women by misrepresenting the procedure. The vast majority of abortions, including those performed later in pregnancy, are carried out for compelling medical, genetic, or other related reasons.

The term fails to capture the complex and often heart-wrenching situations that lead individuals and their healthcare providers to make these decisions.

How Many “Late-Term” Abortions Are There?

Late-term abortions represent a small fraction of all abortions. The majority of abortions in the United States, for example, occur in the first trimester. About 91% to 93 % are performed in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, leaving just 7% to 9% performed past this gestational age. Only about 1.3% of abortions take place after the 21st week, and less than 1% after 24 weeks.

Late-term abortions are generally only performed for instances such as severe fetal anomalies or threats to the life or health of the pregnant person. Oftentimes, complications don’t present until later in the pregnancy, leaving the decision to be made in the second or third trimester unintentionally.

Is a Late-Term Abortion Legal?

The legality of second or third term abortions varies from state to state in the United States. New York and New Jersey have less restrictive abortion laws compared to many other states.

In New York, abortion is legal at any gestational age. In New Jersey, similar laws exist, allowing for later abortions. These states prioritize individual choice and medical necessity, recognizing the complexities that can arise in pregnancy and the importance of safe, legal access to abortion care. 

What is the Most Common Type of Second-Trimester Abortion?

Second-trimester abortions in the state of New Jersey must be performed in an ambulatory surgical center, so not all abortion providers offer them.

Most commonly, a dilation and evacuation (D&E) is performed in the second trimester. Performed during weeks 13 and 24 of pregnancy, it involves dilating the cervix so all fetal tissue can be removed from the uterus. This procedure, which is an outpatient service that may require three days, is considered one of the safest medical procedures.

When Can I Take the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill is typically taken within the first 70 days (10 weeks) of pregnancy, which is calculated from the first day of your last period. This is an important timeline to follow for the medication to be most effective and safe.

Medication abortion, or the abortion pill, is an option for those who prefer a non-surgical method to terminate a pregnancy. The abortion pill actually consists of two separate medications, mifepristone (commonly known as RU-486) and misoprostol.

• Mifepristone is usually taken in a healthcare provider’s office. It’s taken first. and blocks the hormone progesterone, which is needed for the pregnancy to continue.
• Misoprostol is taken within 48 hours after taking mifepristone. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract, expelling all pregnancy tissue from the body. This step can often be done at home.

It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and the specific timeline provided when taking the abortion pill. Additionally, it’s crucial to have a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider to ensure that the abortion is complete and that you are in good health.

Why Are Abortion Rights so Important?

Abortion rights are essential for various reasons, and late-term abortion specialists in NYC want you to be informed about this topic. Access to abortions empowers individuals to make informed choices about their reproductive health, ensuring autonomy and bodily autonomy. They also safeguard the health and wellbeing of pregnant people by allowing access to safe, legal, and medically supervised procedures.

Additionally, they promote gender equality by recognizing that individuals should have control over their reproductive decisions. Restricting abortion rights can lead to unsafe and illegal procedures, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities and those with limited access to healthcare.

For More Information on Abortion Services, Please Contact Metropolitan Medical Associates Today

Call us today at 800-932-0378 or request an appointment online for confidential women’s healthcare including abortion services. We offer second-trimester D&E abortions and can help you find the resources you need to access your right to reproductive healthcare.