Considering Abortion: Possible Physical Risks

By: Linda Buice, volunteer at the STPRC
Abortion may seem like an immediate solution to an unplanned or unwanted pregnancy, but physical complications may occur that have lasting effects. There is risk involved with any type of abortion.
Several steps will help you be more informed before making a choice:

1. The pregnancy should be confirmed. It is possible to receive a false indication of pregnancy.
2. Counseling from someone who does not have a financial or personal stake in what is decided has been considered and explored.
3. You are aware that medical conditions such as high blood pressure, anemia, diabetes, or other conditions increase your risk of complications. (1)
4. The abortion provider being considered has been researched. This includes checking with a state agency (or licensing board) to see if there malpractice suits is pending or if any settlements have been made.
5. The provider should have an emergency follow-up care plan which includes admitting privileges at a nearby hospital. (1)
6. An ultrasound is done by a trained provider that rules out ectopic pregnancy which would require emergency care. (1)

Careful preparation does not guarantee physical complications will not occur. The provider may explain the procedure, but not risks. Be prepared to ask questions and know what can happen. Possible risks for the most common procedures are listed below, but this list is not all-encompassing.

1. The abortion pill* is used in early stages of pregnancy.                                                                                                     Risks reported by the FDA are:                                                                                                                                                        -hemorrhage

            -failed abortion                                                                                                                                                                                                       -serious infections (including a blood infection called sepsis)                                                                    
             Other possible side effects:                                                                                                                          -                                                 -nausea                                                                                                                                                                                                                     -vomiting
            -diarrhea
            -fever (could be a sign of serious infection)
*The FDA has ordered that the pill should never be purchased online and must be purchased from a health-care professional. (1)

      2. The surgical procedure called D & E (dilation and evacuation) is done in the second trimester in the office,              clinic, or a hospital.
           Some risks reported include:
           - infection
           -torn cervix-hole in the uterus
           -complications from anesthesia
           -possible hysterectomy (as a result of complications) (2)
 
      3. A medical induction is done after 16 weeks of pregnancy and usually requires a hospital stay of one or                   more days. Medicine is used to induce labor which may last several hours or several days.
         Risks that have been reported include:
         -fever
         -infections         
         -inability to become pregnant later in life, due to infection
         -hemorrhage
         -possible uterine rupture
         -possible hysterectomy as a result of complication or injury during the procedure (2)

The lists included are physical risks only. Future blog posts will include emotional, psychological, and the spiritual impact abortion may have.

The Southern Tier Pregnancy Resource Center has a variety of resources available as well as qualified peer-counselors to help you become better informed. Our services are kept confidential. The internet is full of resources that may or may not be helpful. We are here to help you and to give you the support you may need. Contact us today for an appointment.

1Hager, David.The Abortion Pill. Focus on the Family, 2010. Print.
 
2"Abortion Risks and Procedures."The Life Center.Midland Life Center.Web.<http://www.midlandlifecenter.org/abortion-risksprocedures>.