Expert: Pat G - 7/30/2009

Question
Can I have an abortion if I am 17 weeks pregnant using pills not a Caesarean.

Answer
Hello, Bongiwe,

No, not to my knowledge. Pills only "work" up to 49 days, but they're not reliable some time before that.

17 weeks is very late. Why are you so desperate to have an abortion that you would take that kind of risk with your life? Perhaps there are some things I can do to help. But you know what? You are asking me to help you hurt yourself, and I won't do that.

You can find help by finding an organization near you that can help with whatever problems you are facing. Go here, and choose South Africa from the country list:

http://www.heartbeatinternational.org/worldwide_directory.asp

There are 113 of them on six pages. You can click on the Details button to get contact information. At least go and talk to them and let them tell you what they can offer, and more details on abortion as well. Some of them even have a web site. And the more you know before you act, the happier you will be with your decision and actions, no matter which you choose.

Abortion could kill you immediately, or render you seriously disabled. It doesn't matter what method is used. And everybody agrees that abortion at 17 weeks is far more dangerous than carrying to term. I don't know what you are running away from that you would want to take that kind of risk. Please reconsider.

I will be here any time you need to talk, but PLEASE protect yourself and don't do this!