A dismemberment abortion—also known as a dilation and evacuation (D&E) abortion—is an abortion in which a person dismembers and extracts the unborn child from the uterus through the use of clamps, grasping forceps, tongs, scissors, or a similar instrument. Some states have passed dismemberment abortion bans. These laws are usually located in a state’s statutes.

Laws vary from state to state and under some state laws the term dismemberment abortion does not include an abortion that uses suction to dismember the body of an unborn child by sucking pieces of the unborn child into a collection container. The term includes a dismemberment abortion that is used to cause the death of an unborn child and in which suction is subsequently used to extract pieces of the unborn child after the unborn child's death.

In Louisiana, dismemberment abortions, also known as dilation and evacuation (D&E) abortions, are subject to state regulation. Louisiana has passed legislation that bans dismemberment abortions except in cases where it is necessary to prevent a serious health risk to the mother. This type of abortion procedure involves dismembering and extracting the fetus from the uterus using instruments like forceps or scissors. The law in Louisiana defines and restricts this procedure under the Louisiana Revised Statutes. It is important to note that legal challenges and court rulings can affect the enforceability of abortion laws, so the current status of these regulations can change. Individuals seeking or providing abortion services in Louisiana should consult with an attorney to understand the most current legal requirements and restrictions.