Surgical abortion is a generally safe procedure that has become significantly safer since the Roe v. Wade decision legalized abortion in 1973. Techniques for early abortions include suction curettage and medical abortion for pregnancies under 14 weeks. For later abortions between 14-24 weeks, dilatation and evacuation is commonly used. While complications are infrequent, they can occasionally be serious, so follow-up after the procedure is important.