What Are the Different Types of Abortion?

Finding information about abortion options may feel overwhelming. You may have heard of terms such as “clinical abortion” and “the abortion pill.” But what do these actually mean? Are there different kinds of abortion? If so, how do they differ?

Keep reading to learn more about the different types of abortion and in which situations they might be performed.

What are the major differences between surgical abortions and the abortion pill?

An abortion can be performed in one of two ways: by a surgical procedure or with medication. The right option for you will depend on how far along your pregnancy is, your preferences, and what is available — and legal — in your area.

Surgical abortions

Surgical abortions require a procedure. For this reason, they are performed in a clinical setting and with pain control. A surgical abortion involves dilating (opening) the cervix and then using suctioning or other tools to remove the pregnancy from the uterus.

A person may choose a surgical abortion over a medical abortion because: 

• It is a quick procedure.

• It can be more effective than a medical abortion. 

• There will be less bleeding afterwards.

• It can be done early or later in pregnancy.

• No follow-up imaging or testing is needed.

Medical abortions

A medical abortion involves taking two medications: mifepristone (Mifeprex) and misoprostol (Cytotec). Mifepristone blocks progesterone, which is a hormone needed for a pregnancy to survive. Misoprostol, which is taken 24 to 48 hours after mifepristone, causes the cervix to dilate and the uterus to contract. These actions expel the pregnancy from the uterus. 

A person may choose a medical abortion because:

• It can be done at home.

• It can be done early in pregnancy.

• No surgery or anesthesia is needed.

A medical abortion can lead to heavy bleeding and cramping, and follow up is needed to confirm the abortion was complete. It’s possible, however, that not all pregnancy tissue will be expelled, and a procedure may be necessary to remove everything from the uterus. 

Importantly, there are some situations where a medical abortion is not possible, such as:

• A pregnancy that is beyond 10 weeks gestational age

• An ectopic pregnancy (outside the uterus)

• An intrauterine device (IUD) in place

• Long-term steroid use

• A bleeding disorder or the use of blood thinners

• An allergy to one or both of the medications

Check out this post on how abortion works for more information on abortions, including what to expect and the recovery process.

Are there different kinds of abortion pills? 

Medication abortion involves two medications: mifepristone (Mifeprex) and misoprostol (Cytotec). If mifepristone is not available, misoprostol alone may be used. However, it is less effective when used alone. 

Medication abortion is not the same thing as Plan B, which is emergency contraception. This is taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy.

Which abortion types are available at the different stages of pregnancy?

How many weeks a pregnancy is will determine what kind of abortion is available. Abortion options in the first trimester include medication or surgical abortion:

• Medical abortion is currently approved for pregnancies up to 70 days (10 weeks), though in some places you may be able to have it up to 77 days (11 weeks). As the pregnancy progresses, medical abortions become less effective. 

• Surgical abortions can be done in the first trimester and beyond. So they are still an option after medical abortions are no longer possible. The technique used will depend on how far along the pregnancy is. 

What is a ‘late-term’ abortion?

“Late-term” abortion has no medical definition. But this term is commonly (and inaccurately) used to refer to abortions that occur after the second trimester of pregnancy.

What is a medically necessary abortion?

Pregnancy can cause or worsen dangerous health conditions. In some situations, a pregnancy can endanger the pregnant person’s life. When an abortion is necessary to save the pregnant person’s life, it is considered to be medically necessary.

Are all types of abortion available in every state?

Each state has different laws on abortion. Many states have laws against abortion based on gestational age. Those that do prohibit abortion do so around 22 weeks after the last menstrual period. Many states also require waiting periods or other restrictions that make getting an abortion after 11 weeks more difficult.

Some states have bans on specific surgical abortions that are commonly performed in the second trimester. There are exceptions for instances in which the pregnant person’s life is in danger.

What resources are available to help you make a decision about having an abortion?

Facing an unplanned pregnancy can be overwhelming and scary. Since each situation is unique, learning about your options is a great first step. When considering abortion, it’s important to know and understand the risks and benefits. It’s also important to know the laws in your state. 

Consider discussing your options with your primary care or women’s health provider, if you have one. If you don’t have access to a healthcare professional, a local public health or women’s clinic may be a good option. You may also consider seeing a telehealth provider to discuss options and resources available to you.

Other resources can provide more information about options and offer support. Examples  include:

• All-Options

• National Abortion Federation (NAF)

• Planned Parenthood

• Pregnancy Decision Line

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Mandy Armitage, MD

Mandy Armitage, MD, has combined her interests in clinical medicine with her passion for education and content development for many years. She served as medical director for the health technology companies HealthLoop (now Get Well) and Doximity.

Edited by:

Sophie Vergnaud, MD

Sophie Vergnaud, MD, is the Senior Medical Director for GoodRx Health. An experienced and dedicated pulmonologist and hospitalist, she spent a decade practicing and teaching clinical medicine at academic hospitals throughout London before transitioning to a career in health education and health technology.

Reviewed by:

Christina Palmer, MD

Christina Palmer, MD, is a board-certified family physician with a special interest in chronic care management, women’s health, mental health, and preventive care. She has over 10 years of experience in primary care research, innovation, and practice.

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