Physical Risks

As someone considering an abortion, you have the right to be aware of these complications.

HEMORRHAGE

Sometimes women bleed heavily during an abortion or a few days afterwards. With a medical abortion (RU-486) bleeding lasts 13-15 days or more. Occasionally it is necessary to receive a transfusion to replace the lost blood. Sometimes a second curettage procedure or a hysterectomy is needed to stop the bleeding.

INFECTION

The uterus is susceptible to infection right after an abortion especially if part of the fetus or placenta is accidentally left inside of you. Infections are even more of a risk if you have Chlamydia or Gonorrhea. Symptoms are pain and fever. This is generally treated with antibiotics but sometimes another curettage procedure must be used. if untreated, a very serious infection can develop and could result in infertility.

PERFORATION

Sometimes the tools of abortion are accidentally pushed through the wall of the uterus during an abortion. If the instrument damages one of your internal organs, it may be necessary to do major surgery to repair the damage. This complication can cause extensive bleeding.

EFFECTS ON LATER PREGNANCY

Injury to the cervix may cause the early loss of a later wanted pregnancy. Scarring which blocks your fallopian tubes, may also occur. This can keep you from becoming pregnant in the future. The risk of miscarriage in later pregnancies is higher if a woman has had two or more abortions.

CONTINUED PREGNANCY

The fetus may be growing in the fallopian tube rather than in your uterus. An abortion procedure would miss this. The continued growth of the fetus in your tube is dangerous and potentially fatal.

BREAST CANCER

A number of scientific studies show a link between abortion and breast cancer.

DEATH

Death has occurred after abortion, although it is rare. When abortion is done after the first three months of pregnancy, the risk of death increases. The cause of death by abortion is usually from heavy bleeding or from complications with the drugs used for pain.

 

REFERENCE:
"Making an Informed Decision About Your Pregnancy", Frontlines Publishing, 2001.

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