(greater than 24 weeks)
Patients coming in for very late (over 24 weeks gestation) abortion are in need
of services for termination of a desired pregnancy that has developed serious
complications. This usually means the discovery of a catastrophic fetal anomaly
or genetic disorder that guarantees death, suffering, or serious disability for the
infant if the pregnancy were to continue to term. Occasionally, a woman presents at
this stage for pregnancy termination because of her own severe medical illness or a
psychiatric indication.
At this point, termination of pregnancy is considered a
far more dangerous procedure and carries with it serious risks of complications.
Pregnancy termination at this stage requires more experience and skill by the
operating physician. It also requires scrupulous attention to procedures that
reduce the risk of complications.
The first step for third trimester patients is the same
as for second trimester patients at 20 weeks or more. The main difference is that
more precautions are taken to reduce the inherent risks associated with more
advanced pregnancy terminations.
One of the main differences for third trimester patients
having a pregnancy terminated for a fetal anomaly is that they may wish to have an
intact fetus they can view and hold as part of the grieving process. For many of
these patients, it isn't just a fetus - it is a baby. The woman and her family
may request certain procedures such as religious ceremonies, genetic studies,
formal autopsy, private cremation, or private burial.
Florida Statutes Section 797.03
Prohibited Acts; Penalties
(1) It is unlawful for any person to perform or assist in performing an abortion on a person, except in an emergency care situation, other than in a validly licensed hospital or abortion clinic or in a physician's office. (2) It is unlawful for any person or public body to establish, conduct, manage, or operate an abortion clinic without a valid current license.
(3) It is unlawful for any person to perform or assist in performing an abortion on a person in the third trimester other than in a hospital.
(4) Any person who willfully violates any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
Third Trimester:
Defined in Chapter 59A-9.019 of the Florida Administrative Code;
"That portion of pregnancy beginning with the 25th week of gestation"
In accordance with state guidelines, we do not perform or offer third trimester abortions.
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