Dilation & Evacuation (D&E): (13 to 20+ wks) the cervix is pried open. Using forceps, the abortionist tears the child out of the womb, limb by limb. The child is then reassembled to assure that no fetal parts are left inside. Possible complications include infection, cervical laceration and uterine perforation.
Prostaglandin: (16 to 38 wks) also called misoprostol, this chemical which induces premature labor, is given as suppositories or an injection; live births are common. Hazards include convulsions, vomiting, and cardiac arrest.
Digoxin Induction: (20 to 32 wks) involves injecting a lethal chemical directly into the baby's heart followed by labor induction with prostaglandin.
Saline Abortion: (16 to 32+ wks) a long needle is inserted into the woman's abdomen, and a salty solution is injected into the amnionic fluid. The salt poisons the child, burning its lungs and skin. A dead baby is then delivered within 24 hours. This method is rarely used any more due to the serious health risks to the woman.
Hysterotomy: an unborn child (24 to 38 wks) like a c-section, an incision is made in the woman's abdomen. The baby is removed then allowed to die by neglect. This procedure carries the same health risks as a c-section.
D&X: (20 to 32+ wks) also known as "partial-birth abortion" this dangerous method of late abortion, involves pulling the baby out feet first into the birth canal while the head remains in the uterus. The abortionist then makes a hole in the back of the skull to remove the brains with a suction catheter. The head collapses allowing the child to be removed in one piece.