What is an induced abortion?

An induced abortion is an abortion procedure to end a pregnancy. An induced abortion can be done with medication or with a surgical procedure. The timing of abortion depends on laws in each country or state. In the US, for example, most states allow induced abortion until 20-24 weeks of the pregnancy.

What is a first-trimester abortion?

A first-trimester abortion is an induced abortion that can be performed up to 12-13 weeks of pregnancy. Most induced abortions are performed during the first trimester. A first-trimester abortion is one of the safest medical procedures. It can be done safely in a health care provider’s office or clinic.

What Causes a Miscarriage at Six Weeks?

A first-trimester abortion can be performed with:

• Surgical abortion: Performing surgery (a procedure called suction curettage)  
• Medical abortion: Taking one or more medications.

Suction curettage is the most common type of abortion.

What is a second-trimester abortion?

A second-trimester abortion is an abortion that takes place after 13 weeks and before 24-26 weeks of the pregnancy. A second-trimester abortion can be performed with a surgical procedure called dilation and evacuation (D&E) or with medication (medical abortion). In the second trimester, a surgical abortion has fewer complications than a medical abortion. Most women who have a second-trimester abortion have a surgical abortion.