What is the usual procedure for abortion after 15 weeks of pregnancy?

The procedure most commonly performed for abortion after 15 weeks of pregnancy is dilatation and evacuation (D&E). D&E is a surgical procedure that involves dilating the cervix and using instruments to remove the contents of the uterus. This method is preferred in the second trimester because it is effective and provides a lower risk of complications compared to other methods when performed during this period.

In the context of pregnancy, medical abortion is typically utilized during the first trimester and involves medications to terminate the pregnancy, which is less effective and not recommended after 15 weeks. Vacuum aspiration, while a common procedure for early abortions, is generally not the primary method used in the second trimester due to changes in anatomy and the increasing size of the uterus. Observation for natural miscarriage does not involve active termination and is not applicable as a standard approach in cases where abortion is sought after 15 weeks, as the decision for termination typically indicates that active intervention is preferred by the individual involved.

Thus, the procedure of dilatation and evacuation is the most suitable and commonly practiced method for abortions performed after 15 weeks of pregnancy.