Understanding all the risks when considering an abortion is vital to protecting your health.
It is important to consult a medical provider to get all the facts so that you can confidently make an informed decision.
Before making your final decision about abortion, you will want to understand not only how the abortion procedure works but also the long-lasting effects that the procedure can have on your physical and mental well-being.
Physical Risks of Abortion
Medical Abortion
A medical abortion, also referred to as the abortion pill, terminates the pregnancy through the use of two drugs – mifepristone and misoprostol. The medications cause the pregnancy to detach from the lining of the uterus and create uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy.
Risks associated with a medical abortion:
- 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 discomfort
Surgical Abortion
A surgical abortion terminates the pregnancy by dilating the woman’s cervix and suctioning or scraping the pregnancy from the inside of the uterus. You may have heard this procedure referred to as dilation and curettage.
Risks associated with a surgical abortion:
- Perforation of the uterus, which may need surgical repair
- Cervical tearing
- Development of scar tissue in the uterus
- Infection
Mental Health Risks of Abortion
The toll that abortion can have on your mental health is significant and should be thoroughly considered before deciding to proceed with the termination of your pregnancy.
According to the National Library of Medicine, abortion not only can cause feelings of sadness, grief, and loss but also can lead to the development of long-term mental health issues.
Post-abortive mental health risks can include:
- Major depression
- PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
- Anxiety
- Suicidal Behaviors
- Nervous disorders
- Sleep disturbance
- Substance abuse
Studies have also shown that the negative effects abortion has on an individual’s mental health may worsen with time instead of getting better.
We Are Here to Help
When facing an unplanned pregnancy, weighing your options and trying to make the best decision can feel overwhelming.
For the sake of your health and future, it is essential to have a clear understanding of all the risks that come with having an abortion.
Palm Beach Women’s Clinic can provide a lab-quality pregnancy test and a follow-up ultrasound to help you learn valuable details about your pregnancy. The trained medical staff can answer your questions and help you better understand how abortion can impact your physical and mental well-being.
Contact us today to get the support you deserve with a confidential, no-cost appointment.
We want to help you gain the knowledge to make the best decision for your health today.