From Our Blog
What Are the Risks of Abortion?
The viral social media trend #myabortionstory often makes abortion look pleasant and simple. But beneath the picture-perfect instagram photo lies an array of emotion and risk.
Though many tout that abortion care is safe, there are instances when it is not.
If you have an unplanned pregnancy and you are considering an abortion, it’s important to look beyond social media for your information. Your body and health are worth discovering all the details and knowing all the risks before you make such a big decision.
What are the physical risks of an abortion?
After an abortion, your body may experience:
- Pelvic infection caused by bacteria that enters your uterus.
- An incomplete abortion, when fetal parts are left inside the uterus and need to be surgically removed. As many as 36 percent of induced labor abortions may experience this.
- Blood clots that need to be removed.
- Heavy bleeding or hemorrhaging.
- Cut or torn cervix.
- Perforation of the uterine wall caused by a medical instrument. In some cases this may require a treatment by hysterectomy.
- Anesthesia complications.
- Trouble with future pregnancies.
What are the emotional risks of an abortion?
Many people don’t talk about the mental and emotional journey that follows an abortion, but it may be even more common than the physical side effects of the procedure.
Many women feel regret or guilt and feel hopeless to ever feel differently. This can lead to depression and apathy. Many women don’t have the desire to do normal activities they once loved.
Some common reasons that having an abortion can lead to depression include:
- perceived stigma and lack of social support
- a history of mental health problems
- personality traits, such as low self-esteem
- features of the pregnancy, including whether the individual wanted it or not
Women who have had an abortion may also struggle with anxiety, eating disorders, addiction, sexual disfunction, flashbacks/PTSD, and suicidal thoughts. Often, women who struggle with these things may not relate them to their past abortion until they receive help from a therapist.
Where can you get more information?
You don’t need to rush into a decision about what to do next. Keep gathering information, asking questions and finding out the truth about your pregnancy options. What you choose to do next will live with you for the rest of your days, so it’s worth taking the time to make the best decision. Don’t let fear, peer pressure, or insecurity force you into doing something you don’t feel confident about.
At Woman’s New Life Clinic, we have professional staff who can answer your questions and support you in your pregnancy journey. Please contact us today for a confidential consultation.