Access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare, including safe and legal abortion services, is a crucial aspect of reproductive rights and healthcare access, allowing individuals to make the best decisions for their unique circumstances.

Why may People have Later-term Abortions

Orlando Women's Center

Later-term abortions, which typically refer to abortions performed after the 

, are relatively rare but may be necessary for a variety of reasons. 

 In some cases, maternal health issues may emerge or worsen later in pregnancy, posing a serious threat to the life or physical health of the pregnant person. In such situations, a later-term abortion may be the safest medical option.

 Some fetal abnormalities or severe health conditions may not become apparent until later in pregnancy. If a fetus is diagnosed with a condition that is incompatible with life or would result in severe suffering, parents may opt for a late-term abortion.

 Some conditions or abnormalities in the fetus may not be detectable until later in pregnancy due to the limitations of medical testing. Delayed diagnosis can necessitate a later-term abortion if the situation warrants it.

 Unexpected life events, changes in personal circumstances, or family crises can lead someone to seek an abortion later in pregnancy. These circumstances may include financial instability, relationship changes, or the loss of a partner or support system.

 Access to abortion services can be restricted by laws and regulations in some regions. These restrictions may create barriers that delay access to care, forcing individuals to seek abortions later in pregnancy.

 Young people who are unaware of their pregnancy, face parental notification or consent requirements, or lack access to confidential healthcare may delay seeking an abortion until later in pregnancy.

 Limited access to abortion clinics, long waiting periods, mandatory counseling, and other logistical hurdles can delay the ability to obtain an abortion, especially for individuals in underserved areas.

 Pregnancy complications can develop or worsen later in gestation, making it necessary to consider abortion to protect the health or life of the pregnant person.

 In cases of sexual assault, survivors may experience delays in recognizing their pregnancy due to the trauma involved. They may seek an abortion later in pregnancy as they come to terms with their situation.