Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
Read more health news
Induced Abortion - Elective Medical Abortion
Overview & Description
When a woman chooses to end a pregnancy, the procedure is called an elective abortion. The fetus may be removed from the uterus by means of an elective surgical abortion or an elective medical abortion. A medical abortion is done by giving the woman medicines that will end the pregnancy.
Who is a candidate for the procedure?
Any woman who chooses to end a pregnancy for health or personal reasons is a candidate for an elective abortion. Abortions are legal in the United States during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. After that, abortion is regulated by each state.
How is the procedure performed?
Before an abortion is done, a doctor will confirm that a woman is pregnant. The length of a pregnancy will be measured by noting the number of days that have passed since the first day of her last menstrual period, known as the LMP. A medical abortion can be done as soon as the pregnancy is confirmed. Medical abortions do not work as well later in pregnancy, so they are not generally used past 7 weeks after LMP. After 7 weeks, an elective surgical abortion can be used.
To prepare for an abortion, a pelvic exam might be done to confirm the size of the uterus. Lab studies will rule out anemia, determine the woman's Rh factor, and screen for sexually transmitted diseases. The woman should be taught what to expect during and after the procedure, and psychological support should be given as needed. Medicines used for a medical abortion include: