Abortions risks and complications for a women

Abortions are a common medical procedure and the chances of developing any life-threatening risks and complications as a result of an abortion are small. Several studies do try and indicate a direct link between having an abortion and infertility or other severe medical conditions. In reality, there are a number of other factors that may cause such conditions in addition to having a complicated abortion.

That said some of the complications of abortion include:

Hemorrhaging – the risk of hemorrhaging during an abortion caused by damage to the cervix and womb is very small. Recent statistics show that only one in every 1,000 abortions may carry the risk of hemorrhaging during the procedure.

Continuation of Pregnancy – Though extremely rare, a continuation of pregnancy is possible.

This may happen in cases where the abortion was carried out in the early stages and may require a second abortion.

Incomplete Abortion – There is a chance that an inexperienced doctor may leave behind small fragments or tissues that will cause bleeding and pain post the abortion. If these symptoms do occur, it is important to contact your clinic at the earliest.
Internal Damage and Infections – There is a minimal chance of damage to the internal organs during the procedure. There is also a risk of infection that could result in other medical complications. Besides this since the procedure is invasive, you are exposed to regular surgery risks.

Pregnancy – One of the biggest risks of an abortion is pregnancy caused by a spike in fertility after the procedure. This increases the chance of becoming pregnant almost right away. Discuss contraceptive methods with the clinic after the abortion to prevent another pregnancy from occurring. There is also no conclusive evidence to suggest that an abortion may affect your chances of a healthy pregnancy in the future. However, in cases where there have been severe complications or with repeated abortions there may be an increase in the chance of a miscarriage, premature labor or ectopic pregnancies.
Cancer – Recent studies indicate that there might be a link between abortion and an increase in the risk of developing breast cancer, cervical cancer, or ovarian cancer. Though studies have also been conducted to refute these findings, majority of the research does support this connection.

Death – Legal abortions are the fifth leading cause of maternal death in the US. These deaths are related to complications such as infections, embolisms, hemorrhages and ectopic pregnancy.

In a normal case, the recovery time of an abortion is generally a few weeks. Common side effects that may be experienced during this time include vaginal bleeding, pain, cramps, nausea and vomiting. Most of these are temporary and subside within a few hours or weeks after the abortion. However, you could be at greater risk if these symptoms continue for long periods or increase in intensity.