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Understanding Abortion Risks

An abortion may be safer today than it was 50 years ago, but it still can cause possible short- or long-term health trouble. The risks become higher the further along you are in your pregnancy or if you have such health problems as anemia, a sexually transmitted disease or drug addiction. Death, although extremely rare, can occur. And the nature of abortion itself can lead to such psychological problems as lingering sadness, guilt and depression. Here’s what you need to know before making an informed decision.

Physical complications
About one out of every 100 women will suffer some kind of complication with her abortion. The more common ones are allergic reactions to anesthetics or medications used during the procedure, blood clots in the uterus, infection, cut or torn cervix, and incomplete abortions. Less common problems include heavy bleeding that requires a blood transfusion and a perforated uterus. Some of these conditions can increase the risk for future pregnancy complications or infertility, particularly untreated infections and those that can cause scarring.

Your counselor can provide more information about symptoms and treatment, as well as discuss other possible complications. It is important that you give your medical provider an honest, complete physical history, including any prescription or street drug use and sexual activity. Remember, your medical information is confidential, so don’t let fear or shame keep you silent. And just as important: Follow your doctor’s instructions and keep him or her informed of any unusual symptoms. Permanent damage, such as infertility, most often occurs because a problem goes untreated.

The Emotional Tidal Wave
Emotions after an abortion can be an intense mix of shame, relief, loss, hopefulness and sadness. Counseling and support factor into how well a woman handles abortion’s emotional aftermath.

Most women experience a grieving period. A small number of women report prolonged grief or feelings of shame, guilt and depression. Studies show a severe reaction most often occurs in women who wanted to continue their pregnancy but did not. Relationship troubles with the father or parents, feeling forced into having an abortion or other traumatic life events also can cause more complex emotional reactions.

Talk It Out First
Women who felt pressured to make a decision can wonder afterward if they made the right choice. Counseling can help you work through your fears, concerns and hopes for the future before you make a choice. There’s a small window from the time you discover you’re pregnant to the time when health risks from abortion increase, but don’t rush to a decision until thinking everything through. Deciding how to handle an unplanned pregnancy isn’t easy. Take time to catch your breath and answer all your questions.

Sidebar: What about breast cancer?
Breast cancer has been on the rise during the past few decades. Many factors come into play, including genetics and nutrition, but research indicates that hormones released during pregnancy and breast feeding show a positive effect on reducing the risk. A few researchers have voiced concern that because abortion alters the natural hormone changes during pregnancy, it might increase the risk for breast cancer. Research conducted so far varies in results, with some showing no link and others reporting significant increases. While the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute currently report no conclusive evidence that abortion increases a woman’s chances for developing breast cancer, researchers are delving further into this issue.

Like any other surgical procedure, abortion has its risks. Make sure all your questions are answered thoroughly before you decide.