Depending on the type of abortion, risks can vary. However, anyone contemplating abortion should discuss with their doctor risks that may include:
- Fever
- Infection
- Hemorrhaging
This is not a comprehensive list, and only by seeing a professional and discussing your health history, current medications, the pregnancy’s gestational age, and other specific-to-you factors can you understand all your risks and options.
What Risks Should I Know About Medical Abortions?
A medical abortion uses a drug combination known as the abortion pill to terminate a pregnancy. It detaches the embryo from the uterus by blocking an essential hormone, then inducing contractions that push the embryo and pregnancy tissue out of the body.
Risks cited by the Mayo Clinic include:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
Some women do not qualify for this type of abortion due to medical history or the pregnancy’s gestational age. Speaking with your provider or local pregnancy clinic can give you the insight you need to understand the risks and make an informed decision.
What Risks Should I Know About Surgical Abortions?
A surgical abortion is an operation women undergo that allows a surgeon to manually remove the pregnancy from her uterus using surgical methods and tools.
Risks cited by the Mayo Clinic include:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Damage to the cervix
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Infection
Since this method does come with more risks and is more invasive, women should thoroughly discuss all their options and how this procedure may impact their health with a qualified professional.
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