Elective abortion (ending a pregnancy) is a safe and legal procedure, particularly if performed during the pregnancy's first trimester (0 to 12 weeks). Elective abortions can be performed safely after the 12th week of pregnancy, but there is a higher risk of complications, including bleeding and infection. After 24 weeks, abortions are rare and done primarily for serious health reasons. In most states, abortion is illegal after 24 weeks gestation.

There are two types of elective abortion:

• Surgical abortion is usually done in a doctor's office, hospital or clinic using vacuum aspiration. The products of conception are removed through a narrow tube with vacuum-like suction. The procedure usually takes only a few minutes, and no overnight stay is necessary. In fact, most women are able to resume their normal activities the next day. Anesthesia for the procedure varies from local anesthesia given around the cervix (opening to the womb) to sedatives given through an intravenous line.
• Medical, or nonsurgical, abortion is done using drugs such as RU-486. Medical abortion is usually done within the first seven weeks of pregnancy.

To make sure your body is healing normally and that all pregnancy tissue has been removed, a follow-up visit with your health care provider is necessary after an abortion. This is also a good time to talk with him or her about birth control options and family planning.

If you are younger than 18, some states require parental or court permission before an abortion can be done. Your doctor or health clinic can tell you about the laws in your state.

If you have questions about abortion, talk to your doctor, your local Planned Parenthood office, family planning center or department of social services. You can also call the National Abortion Federation Hotline at 1-800-772-9100.