Types of Abortion (Bioethics)

Complete abortion:
All products of conception are expelled (complete placenta and fetus).

Incomplete abortion:
Expulsion of fetus is incomplete, membranes of placenta is retained, may be intentional or
unintentional.

Early abortion:
Abortion within the first trimester of pregnancy; it necessarily includes the embryonic stage from the
moment of conception.

Induced abortion:
An intentional (willful and deliberate) abortion brought about by mechanical (surgical) or chemical
means; necessarily direct.

Criminal abortion:
Any abortion committed outside the parameter set by law. In the Philippines, abortion in all direct
methods is illegal or criminal.

Habitual abortion:
Three consecutive pregnancies culminating in spontaneous abortion; may indicate need for
investigation into underlying causes.

Infected abortion:
Type of abortion associated with or possibly caused by an infection of the uterus or the genital tract,
such as that which is caused by a venereal disease.

Septic abortion:
Associated with or possibly caused by an infection of the uterus.