Pregnancy Resource Center - Grand Rapids Michigan » Abortion Risks

Physical Risks

admin — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 01:22:29 +0000

Hemorrhage
Sometimes women bleed heavily during an abortion or a few days afterward. With a medical abortion, such as the use of RU-486, bleeding lasts 12-15 days, or longer. Occasionally it is necessary to receive a transfusion to replace the lost blood. Sometimes a second curettage procedure, or even a hysterectomy, is needed to stop the bleeding.

Infection
The uterus is susceptible to infection immediately after an abortion, especially if part of the baby or placenta is accidentally left inside of you. Infections are even more of a risk if you have Chlamydia or Gonorrhea. Symptoms of infection include pain and fever. Infection is generally treated with antibiotics but sometimes another curettage procedure must be used. If untreated, a very serious infection can develop and could result in infertility.

Perforation
Sometimes the tools of abortion are accidentally pushed through the wall of the uterus during an abortion. If the instrument damages one of your internal organs, it may be necessary to do major surgery to repair the damage. This complication can cause extensive bleeding.

Effects on Later Pregnancy
Injury to the cervix may cause the early loss of a later, wanted pregnancy. Scarring, which blocks your fallopian tubes, may also occur; this can prevent you from becoming pregnant in the future. The risk of miscarriage in later pregnancies is higher if a woman has had two or more abortions.

Ectopic (Tubal) Pregnancy
The fetus may be growing in your fallopian tube rather than in your uterus. An abortion procedure would miss this. The continued growth of the fetus in a fallopian tube is dangerous and potentially fatal.

Breast Cancer
A number of scientific studies show a link between abortion and breast cancer.

Death
Death, although rare, has occurred after abortion. When an abortion is done after the first three months of pregnancy, the risk of death increases. The cause of death by abortion is usually from heavy bleeding or from complications with the drugs used for pain.

For more information please contact the PRC.

Courtesy:
Frontlines Publishing 2004
72 Ransom Ave NEG
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
616.248.4300

Emotional Risks

admin — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 01:23:15 +0000

Some women experience an immediate feeling of relief following an abortion, but many find themselves later coping with the feelings they did not expect. They may have a difficult time talking about these feelings. Some psychologists have labeled these problems as Post-Abortion Stress.

Symptoms may include: Sadness, long-term grief, anger sexual dysfunction, guilt, flashbacks, memory repression, anniversary reactions, hallucinations, suicidal thoughts, increased alcohol and drug use, difficulty maintaining close relationships.

If you or someone you know has these symptoms, has had an abortion and is interested in getting help, please contact us at the Pregnancy Resource Center.

Courtesy:
Frontlines Publishing 2004
72 Ransom Ave NEG
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
616.248.4300

Spiritual Risks

admin — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 01:23:52 +0000

Many people who are contemplating abortion think about their spirituality, perhaps a Christian upbringing or strong morals were a part of their past. Don’t overlook your feelings. If you are questioning your decision be assured that you do need to take the time you need to explore all of your options. The best decisions are not always the ‘easiest.’