Medically induced abortion at 12 to 22 weeks gestation: Indications, methods, and results

Objective. To give an update on abortion procedures in the second trimester of pregnancy (at 12 to 22 weeks’ gestation). Subject and methods. Available literature sources published in Medline, Pubmed, and other databases were sought. A total of 107 sources dealing with different abortion procedures in the second trimester were found; 20 of them were included in this review. Results. Both surgical (dilatation and evacuation) and medical procedures are recommended to end pregnancy after 12 weeks. Their advantages, high efficiency, and possible complications of the medical procedure using mifepristone and misoprostol over other techniques are shown. Conclusion. The clinical experience of medically induced abortion in late periods (in the second trimester – at 12 to 22 weeks’ gestation) demonstrates that this technique is promising and safe. © Bionika Media Ltd.