How Will an Abortion Affect Me Physically?

Feeling overwhelmed or unsure if you’re unexpectedly pregnant is normal. However, when considering the option of abortion, you’ll want to weigh all possible risks and side effects. 

Read on to better understand what to expect if you choose an abortion procedure so you can make an informed decision.

What Are Common Side Effects?

Surgical Abortion

Surgical abortions require in-clinic surgery while you are under anesthesia.

The length of the process (including exam, recovery, etc.) can range, depending on the health provider’s recommendation, from a few hours to one or two days (but does not require overnight stays). Possible side effects after the procedure are cramping and mild bleeding or spotting. 

Medical Abortion

A medical abortion involves taking two different drugs to end and expel the pregnancy.

The most common side effects of a medical abortion are cramping and bleeding. This is caused by the medication working to end the pregnancy and expel the uterine lining and pregnancy-related tissue from your body. Bleeding and spotting can occur for up to 30 days after taking the drugs.

What Are the Health Risks?

Potential Risks of Surgical Abortion

Risks of surgical abortion may include the following:

• Tissue remaining in the uterus
• Injury to the cervix
• A hole in the wall of the uterus (uterine perforation)
• Moderate to severe vaginal bleeding
• Infection

Possible Risks of Medical Abortion

The following risks are associated with medical abortion:

• Incomplete abortion (may need to be followed by surgical abortion)
• An ongoing pregnancy (if the procedure doesn’t work)
• Heavy/prolonged bleeding
• Fever
• Digestive system discomfort
• Infection

Potential Risks for Future Health

While abortion can have immediate health risks, it can impact your future health and wellbeing.

• A 2013 study found that women who have had abortions are more than twice as likely to have a very early preterm delivery in future pregnancies.
• Infants who are born prematurely have a low survival rate. 
• Surgical abortion may scar the uterine lining, which could impact future fertility.
• One study discovered that women who had undergone abortions had higher rates of mental health issues. 

Next Steps

At First Care, we offer free and confidential pregnancy services, such as pregnancy tests and ultrasounds. These important resources can provide you with key details that may impact your decision and determine your eligibility for an abortion. We are here to offer you support in a warm, caring environment. Contact us today!