Topic Overview

What is an abortion?
Abortion is the ending of a pregnancy. Abortion can be:

• Spontaneous. Spontaneous abortion occurs on its own as a result of natural causes. This is also known as a miscarriage. If you have had a miscarriage, see the topic Miscarriage.
• Therapeutic or elective. A therapeutic or elective abortion occurs when measures are taken to end the pregnancy.

How do I know what decision is right for me?

You should seek counseling and advice before making an informed decision. Counseling early in the pregnancy is important for a positive outcome regardless of whether the pregnancy will continue or an abortion is chosen. You should understand your choices, which are to:

• Have a baby and keep it.
• Have a baby and give it up for adoption.
• Have an abortion.

Choosing a medical or surgical abortion depends on:

• Your medical history.
• How many weeks pregnant you are.
• What options are available where you live.
• Your personal preferences.

When should I see a doctor?

If you think you may be pregnant, contact your health professional for a pregnancy test and counseling on pregnancy information and options. Most emergency contraception methods currently available are used within 72 hours of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. A copper intrauterine device (IUD) can be used as emergency contraception and can be inserted 5 to 7 days after unprotected intercourse.

Early in the pregnancy (during the first trimester ), there are more options as to the type of abortion that is done, and those options tend to have fewer complications than when the procedure is performed later in the pregnancy.

Who should I see?

Surgical abortions are minor surgeries that require a health professional who has some specialized training. If a medical abortion is not successful (less than 10% of the time), a surgical abortion must be done as follow-up. A gynecologist or a family practitioner with special training can perform abortions.

What exams or tests will I need to have?

Your health professional will ask about your medical history and will do a physical exam, including a pelvic exam. Lab tests will be done to confirm your pregnancy. An ultrasound may also be done.

Who can have an abortion?

An abortion is legal, with restrictions, in the United States. Abortion in other areas of the world may be considered differently.

In the United States, about 55% of all abortions are performed in the first 8 weeks ( first trimester ), 88% are performed before 13 weeks, and 95% are performed before 16 weeks.

How is an abortion done?

An abortion is done with medications or surgery. The type of abortion done depends on how many weeks pregnant you are. A normal pregnancy is 40 weeks long, counting from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP).

Abortions are rarely done after 24 weeks of pregnancy. Many states in the U.S. have restrictions on abortions after 24 weeks.

Both medical and surgical methods of abortion require follow-up visits that will include a physical exam (including a pelvic exam), lab tests, and discussion of birth control use.

Will I be able to have children in the future?

A safe, uncomplicated, legal abortion rarely affects your future fertility or any future pregnancies.