First and second trimester abortion

First and second trimester abortions refer to the termination of a pregnancy during different stages of fetal development. The gestational age of the pregnancy is typically measured in weeks, with the first trimester lasting up to 13 weeks and the second trimester extending from 14 to 26 weeks.

First Trimester Abortion:

• Medical Abortion (Up to 10 Weeks):
• Medical abortion is a non-surgical method that involves taking two different medications. The first medication, mifepristone, is usually taken under the supervision of a healthcare provider. The second medication, misoprostol, is taken at home within a specific timeframe.
• Medical abortion is highly effective and safe during the early stages of pregnancy (up to 10 weeks).
• The process typically induces a miscarriage within a day or a few days.

• Surgical Abortion (Up to 13 Weeks):
• Surgical abortion methods for the first trimester include aspiration or suction abortion. These procedures are typically performed in a healthcare clinic or abortion clinic.
• Aspiration abortion involves using a suction device to remove the pregnancy from the uterus. It is a safe and commonly used method for early pregnancy termination.

Second Trimester Abortion:

• Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) (13-24 Weeks):
• Dilation and evacuation is the most common method for second trimester abortion. It involves a surgical procedure performed in a healthcare facility.
• The cervix is dilated, and the pregnancy is removed using suction and medical instruments.
• Anesthesia or sedation is often provided to minimize discomfort.

• Induction Abortion (13-24 Weeks):
• Induction abortion involves the use of medications to initiate labor and expel the pregnancy. This method is typically used in the later weeks of the second trimester.
• The process can take place over a longer duration compared to earlier abortion methods.
• It may require inpatient care in a hospital or specialized healthcare facility.