Immediate Risks of Abortion
Induced abortion carries a risk of several side effects. These risks include abdominal pain and cramping, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Such complications may include:
Heavy Bleeding—Some bleeding after abortion is normal. However, there is a risk of hemorrhage, especially if the uterine artery is torn. When this happens, a blood transfusion may be required.
Infection—There is a risk that bacteria may get into the uterus from an incomplete abortion resulting in infection. A serious infection may lead to persistent fever over several days and extended hospitalization.
Incomplete Abortion—There is a risk that some fetal parts may not be removed by the abortion. Bleeding and infection may occur. RU486 may fail in up to 1 out of every 20 cases.
Allergic Reaction to Drugs—There is a risk of an allergic reaction to the anesthesia used during abortion surgery. These risks include convulsions, heart attack and, in extreme cases, death.
Tearing of the Cervix—There is a risk that the cervix may be cut or torn by abortion instruments.
Scarring of the Uterine Lining—There is a risk that suction tubing, curettes, and other abortion instruments may cause permanent scarring of the uterine lining.
Perforation of the Uterus—There is a risk that the uterus may be punctured or torn by abortion instru ments. The risk of this complication increases with the length of the pregnancy. If this occurs, major surgery, including a hysterectomy, may be required.
Damage to Internal Organs—When the uterus is punctured or torn, there is also a risk that damage will occur to nearby organs such as the bowel and bladder.
Death—In extreme cases, there is a risk of other physical complications from abortion including excessive bleeding, infection, organ damage from a perforated uterus, and adverse reactions to anesthesia may lead to death. This complication is very rare and occurs, on average, in less than 20 cases per year.
Other Risks of Abortion
Abortion May Effect Risk Levels in Future Pregnancies
Scarring or other injury during an abortion may prevent or place at risk future wanted pregnancies. The risk of miscarriage is greater for women who abort their first pregnancy.
Abortion May Increase the Risk of Emotional Problems
Some women experience strong negative emotions after abortion. Sometimes this occurs within days and sometimes it happens after many years. This psychological response is known as Post-Abortion Stress (PAS). Several factors that increase the risk of Post-Abortion Stress include: the woman's age, the abortion circumstances, the stage of pregnancy at which the abortion occurs, and the woman's religious beliefs.
Post-Abortion Stress Symptoms
- Guilt
- Anger
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Suicidal Thoughts
- Anniversary Grief
- Flashbacks of Abortion
- Sexual Dysfunction
- Relationship Problems
- Eating Disorders
- Alcohol and Drug Abuse
- Psychological Reactions
Spiritual Consequences
People have different understandings of God. Whatever your present beliefs may be, there is a spiritual side to abortion that deserves to be considered. Having an abortion may affect more than just your body and your mind -- it has an impact on your relationship with God. What is God's desire for you in this situation? How does God see your unborn child? These are important questions to consider.