Late termination of pregnancy

Late termination of pregnancy, also known as post-viability abortion, is a termination of pregnancy that is performed during a later stage of pregnancy. Late termination of pregnancy is more controversial than abortion in general because it involves the termination of a fetus that may be able to survive outside the womb.

Definition

The definition of late termination of pregnancy varies by source. Some definitions pertain to the fetal development stage, others to gestational age, and yet others to the actual duration of the pregnancy. The point at which a fetus becomes viable is not fixed, and the exact definition of "late termination" can vary.

Reasons

There are various reasons why a woman might seek a late termination of pregnancy. These can include maternal health risks, fetal abnormalities, and personal circumstances such as a change in socio-economic status or relationship status. In some cases, a woman may not realize she is pregnant until the pregnancy is already advanced.

Procedures

There are several methods used to perform late termination of pregnancy. These include dilation and extraction, induction abortion, and hysterotomy abortion. The method chosen often depends on the gestational age of the fetus and the woman's health.

Legal and ethical issues

The legality of late termination of pregnancy varies widely around the world. In some countries, it is legal at any point during pregnancy for certain reasons. In others, it is heavily restricted or banned outright. Ethical issues surrounding late termination of pregnancy often involve debates about fetal rights, women's rights, and medical ethics.

See also

• Abortion
• Fetal viability
• Dilation and extraction
• Induction abortion
• Hysterotomy abortion

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Late termination of pregnancy

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  UK abortion by gestational age 2019
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  US abortion by gestational age 2016