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How late into pregnancy can an abortion be performed?

Dec 09, 2021 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. An Na
Introduction
Medical abortion is only suitable for pregnancies of up to 49 days’ duration. Compared with surgical abortion, medical abortion avoids the physical discomfort associated with the procedure—this is a key distinction between the two methods. However, medical abortion also has certain drawbacks: incomplete expulsion of the pregnancy tissue may occur, meaning the embryo may not be fully expelled in a single instance, potentially leading to retained products of conception, which would then necessitate a subsequent uterine evacuation (dilation and curettage).

Abortion is a procedure associated with certain risks and may impact a woman’s physical health. Therefore, for optimal health, women must carefully select the most appropriate timing for undergoing an induced abortion—neither too early nor too late. Specific details are as follows:

What is the latest gestational age at which an abortion can be performed?

Medical abortion (medication-induced abortion) is suitable only for pregnancies up to 49 days (measured from the first day of the last menstrual period). Compared with surgical abortion, medical abortion avoids the discomfort associated with surgical procedures—a key distinction between the two methods. However, it also carries drawbacks: incomplete expulsion of the pregnancy tissue may occur, potentially requiring a follow-up uterine evacuation (dilation and curettage, or D&C).

Surgical abortion techniques include vacuum aspiration and dilation and curettage (D&C). Compared with medical abortion, surgical abortion is generally more painful but offers a higher likelihood of complete removal of pregnancy tissue. Both methods carry potential risks to the body. Prior to choosing an abortion method, women should undergo ultrasound examination at a hospital to rule out ectopic pregnancy.

Abortion options include medical abortion, conventional surgical abortion, and painless (anesthesia-assisted) surgical abortion. The choice among these depends on individual circumstances. Medical abortion is indicated for pregnancies up to 49 days’ gestation, whereas surgical abortion may be performed during the first trimester (up to 12 weeks). Generally, the optimal window for surgical abortion is between 50 and 70 days’ gestation; it should not exceed 90 days. For visually guided (e.g., hysteroscopic) abortion procedures, most physicians will not perform the surgery beyond approximately 80 days due to significantly increased procedural risks.

Additionally, following an induced abortion, women must pay close attention to personal hygiene, particularly maintaining cleanliness of the external genitalia. It is recommended to wash the perineal area several times daily with warm water and to change sanitary pads frequently. If vaginal bleeding persists beyond 14 days post-abortion, sitz baths should be avoided, and sexual intercourse must be strictly prohibited.

We hope the above information is helpful. Wishing you good health and happiness!

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