Late Term Abortion – What exactly is that, and what does it mean? Medical experts do not all agree on the definition of “late term abortion.” Although it is not an exact medical term, late term abortion is generally understood to be an abortion performed at a later stage of pregnancy.
Any woman facing an unintended pregnancy – whether in its early or later stages – is also facing many challenges and questions. If you are in this situation and considering abortion, we want to assist you. Avenue Women’s Center is committed to helping you navigate this challenging season. We invite you to call or text us for a confidential consultation with one of our caring, nonjudgmental staff. We are here to support you in your decision-making process. Our consultations are free, and many of the services we offer are free as well.
Some medical sources hold that late term abortion begins as early as 14 weeks of pregnancy; others believe it starts at 16 weeks; still others consider a later term abortion to be one performed in the third trimester (28 weeks or later). The point at which an abortion becomes late-term is often related to the time of “viability” (ability to survive outside the uterus). Late term abortions are sometimes referred to as post-viability abortions.
In many states, late term abortion is subject to greater regulation than earlier term abortions. Almost all states have restrictions prohibiting abortions past the age of viability. Although that age is not universally defined, most medical communities consider the age of viability to be 24 weeks. In the case of a post-viability abortion, there may be additional state regulations, for example, who can perform the termination and where it must be performed. Illinois allows post-viability abortion for the life or health of the pregnant woman, however a second physician must participate in the procedure.
Late term abortions may include greater risks and difficulty for the woman. The risks vary depending on the type of abortion procedure. Late term abortions are also significantly more expensive than earlier terminations.
If you are researching late term abortion for yourself, we know that you did not come easily to this point. Women’s lives and situations change in many unexpected ways. We’re sorry to know that you are facing a difficult situation.
As you are considering your pregnancy options, we hope to be able to help you. We have five locations in Chicagoland: Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn / Lombard, Naperville, West Chicago, and Wood Dale, Illinois. Between those locations, we usually have openings to serve women, even same-day. If we may help you today, please contact us.
References:
Guttmacher Institute. (2018, December). State Policies on Later Abortions. Retrieved from: https://www.guttmacher.org/state-policy/explore/state-policies-later-abortions
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.