Late-Term Abortion: Procedures, Risks, Pain, and More

Are you further along in your pregnancy and wondering about your options? Questions like “Is late-term abortion safe?” or “Will it be more painful?” might feel overwhelming. 

At The Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut, we’re here to provide clear, compassionate answers to help you make an informed decision about your health and future. 

Take a moment to breathe—we’ve got you covered. This guide explores late-term abortion, including procedures, risks, pain, and legal considerations in Connecticut. Keep reading to learn more.

What Is Late-Term Abortion?

A late term abortion refers to an abortion that occurs later in pregnancy. There is no current consensus on exactly when in the pregnancy an abortion is considered “late”, however some indicate that it is around 21 weeks.[1]

Late-term abortions are rare, but they do happen. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2021, 0.9% of U.S. abortions took place at or after 21 weeks.[2]

Understanding your pregnancy timeline is key. At The Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut, we offer free ultrasounds to confirm how far along you are, empowering you to make the best choice for your situation.

Are Late-Term Abortions Legal in Connecticut?

Currently, abortion is legal up until viability in Connecticut. Exceptions can be made after viability to preserve the life or health of the pregnant woman.[3]

Viability refers to the point in pregnancy when a fetus is developed enough to survive outside the womb with medical help, which occurs at approximately 24 weeks of pregnancy.[4] 

Before choosing abortion, visit The Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut for a free ultrasound. Our team will guide you through your options—whether that’s parenting, adoption, or abortion—so you feel confident in your next steps.

How Are Late-Term Abortions Performed?

Most late-term abortions use a procedure called dilation and evacuation (D&E). Here’s how it works[5]:

Cervical Preparation

To prepare the cervix, the doctor may: 

• Insert sponge-like devices into the cervix the day before the procedure. These absorb moisture, expand, and gently open the cervix. 

• Prescribe medication the night before to soften the cervix, making dilation easier.

Procedure

The procedure itself is typically performed in an abortion clinic or hospital. Once the cervix is dilated, the provider:

• Inserts a cannula (a thin tube) into the uterus, connected to a suction device to remove the fetal tissue.

• Uses forceps to clear any remaining fetal tissue, ensuring the procedure is complete.[6]

What Are the Risks of Late-Term Abortion?

Like any medical procedure, late-term abortion has potential risks, including[7]:

• Cervical injury

• Infection

• Heavy bleeding

• Uterine perforation (a hole in the uterus)

• Uterine rupture (tearing of the uterus)

• Incomplete abortion (remaining tissue in the uterus)

• Need for surgical repairs to the cervix or uterus

At The Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut, we’re here to discuss these risks openly, helping you weigh your options with care and understanding.

Are Late-Term Abortions Painful?

Pain levels vary from person to person, but late-term abortions often involve more discomfort than early-term procedures due to the pregnancy’s progression. 

However, studies show that late-term abortions can be painful. Studies have found that women who received late-term abortions experienced more pain than they expected during their procedures.[8] 

Have Questions About Late-Term Abortion? Contact The Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut.

We understand. Considering a late-term abortion may feel overwhelming and lonely. The Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut is a safe place to ask the hard questions, process your emotions, and get the care you deserve. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your health and future!

Call or text us at 860-576-8073 or request your appointment online today. All services are confidential and free of charge! 

Please be aware that The Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut does not provide or refer for abortion services.

Sources

1. Kimport, K. (2022, June). Is third-trimester abortion exceptional? Two pathways to abortion after 24 weeks of pregnancy in the United States. Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9321603/ 

2. Abortion Surveillance Findings and Reports. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, November 21). https://www.cdc.gov/reproductive-health/data-statistics/abortion-surveillance-findings-reports.html   

3. Public Act No. 22-19. Connecticut General Attorney. (2022, July 1). https://cga.ct.gov/2022/ACT/PA/PDF/2022PA-00019-R00HB-05414-PA.PDF     

4. Breborowicz, G. (2001, January). Limits of fetal viability and its enhancement. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11753511/   

5. Understanding Dilation and Evacuation (D&E). Saint Luke’s Health System. (n.d.). https://www.saintlukeskc.org/health-library/understanding-dilation-and-evacuation-de 

6. See source #5.

7. See source #5.

8. Dzuba, I. G., Chandrasekaran, S., Fix, L., Blanchard, K., & King, E. (2022, May 12). Pain, Side Effects, and Abortion Experience Among People Seeking Abortion Care in the Second Trimester. Women’s Health Reports (New Rochelle, N.Y.). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9148646/